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17 Things They Don't Want You to Know About Motorcycles

Jackson Blair

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Published in Motorcycle Guidebook: 17 Things They Don T Want You To Know About Motorcycles

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Motorcycles are a great way to experience the freedom of the open road, but there are some things you should know before you hit the pavement. Here are 17 things they don't want you to know about motorcycles.

Motorcycle Guidebook: 17 Things They Don't Want You to Know About Motorcycles

by Margaret Hubert

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	51 pages

1. Motorcycles are more dangerous than cars

This is a fact that no one wants to admit, but it's true. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA),motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in a crash than car drivers.

There are a number of reasons for this, including the fact that motorcycles are smaller and less visible than cars, and that motorcyclists are not protected by a metal frame. Additionally, motorcyclists are often more vulnerable to road hazards, such as potholes and gravel.

2. Wearing a helmet is the single most important thing you can do to stay safe on a motorcycle

Helmets reduce the risk of head injury by 69%, and they are required by law in most states. Even if you are only planning on riding a short distance, always wear a helmet.

When choosing a helmet, make sure it fits snugly and covers your entire head. The helmet should also be DOT-approved, which means it meets the minimum safety standards.

3. You need to be properly trained to ride a motorcycle

Riding a motorcycle is not as easy as it looks. There is a lot of skill involved, and you need to be properly trained before you hit the road.

There are a number of different motorcycle training courses available, and I recommend taking one before you start riding. These courses will teach you the basics of motorcycle operation, including how to start, stop, and turn. You will also learn how to handle different road conditions and how to avoid accidents.

4. Motorcycles are not for everyone

Motorcycles are not for everyone. If you are not physically fit or if you have any medical conditions that could affect your ability to ride, you should not ride a motorcycle.

Additionally, motorcycles are not a good choice for people who are not comfortable with risk. Riding a motorcycle is inherently dangerous, and you need to be prepared for the possibility of an accident.

5. Motorcycles can be expensive

Motorcycles can be expensive, both to purchase and to maintain. The cost of a motorcycle will vary depending on the make and model, but you can expect to pay at least a few thousand dollars for a new motorcycle.

In addition to the purchase price, you will also need to factor in the cost of insurance, maintenance, and fuel. Motorcycles are not as fuel-efficient as cars, so you will need to budget for more frequent fill-ups.

6. Motorcycles are not always reliable

Motorcycles are not as reliable as cars. They are more likely to break down, and they can be more difficult to fix. If you are planning on riding a motorcycle, you need to be prepared for the possibility of having to make repairs.

Some of the most common motorcycle problems include electrical issues, carburetor problems, and tire punctures. If you are not mechanically inclined, you may want to consider having your motorcycle serviced by a professional.

7. Motorcycles can be noisy

Motorcycles can be noisy, especially if they have aftermarket exhaust systems. This can be a problem if you live in a quiet neighborhood or if you are planning on riding your motorcycle on long trips.

If you are concerned about noise, you can purchase a motorcycle with a quieter exhaust system. You can also wear earplugs when you ride to reduce the noise level.

8. Motorcycles can be uncomfortable

Motorcycles can be uncomfortable, especially if you are riding for long periods of time. The seats are often narrow and hard, and the riding position can put strain on your back and neck.

If you are planning on riding your motorcycle for long distances, you can purchase a more comfortable seat or backrest. You can also take breaks often to stretch and rest your muscles.

9. Motorcycles can be dangerous in bad weather

Motorcycles are not as safe to ride in bad weather as cars. The rain, snow, and ice can make it difficult to control your motorcycle, and the wind can make it difficult to stay on the road.

If you are planning on riding your motorcycle in bad weather, make sure you are wearing appropriate gear, including a helmet, gloves, and rain gear. You should also slow down and be extra cautious.