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November 14, 2008
As important as motorcyclists putting “safety first,” is the safety that they should prioritize. In other words, many myths exist about the ideal ways to maintain motorcycle safety. However, it is important to know the truth regarding the assertions about safety, which the myths address. While several myths exist regarding ideal motorcycle safety measures, here are some of the most common ones:
Myth #1: Guru motorcyclists stop better with standard brakes than with anti-lock brakes
Experts have conducted studies that disprove this myth. The tests included outstanding motorcyclists, who rode on pavements that were flat, dry, and clean. The riders consistently braked faster with the anti-lock brakes. If the researchers had included surfaces that were oily, wet, dirty, etc., the anti-lock brakes would have undoubtedly performed even better on them! Furthermore, another advantage of such braking systems is that your brakes will not lock up as you practice “panic stops.”
Myth #2: Riding on a street is safer than riding on an interstate
Conventional wisdom says that if motorcyclists are riding slower, then the riding is safer. However, keep in mind that on larger roadways, such as Interstate highways, certain components are absent:
• Side streets
• Pedestrians
• Fewer off-road items to hit off the roadway
• Traffic moving in multiple directions
Thus, it is actually safer to ride alongside a semi truck on an Interstate highway, than to roll at 50% of that speed on a street in the city or on a country road.
Myth #3: A guru motorcyclist can handle every possible scenario
The myth is false because no motorcyclist can control the driving of those around him. Even if the motorcyclist is the most skilled and alert driver on the planet Earth, he must take certain precautions to remain safe while operating his vehicle. It is important to ride at a reasonable speed, scan farther than the nearest car, etc.
Furthermore, wearing various types of motorcycle gear will help to safeguard you for any situation while motorcycling. In particular, it is advisable to wear at a minimum a DOT-approved Motorcycle helmet, a motorcycle jacket, motorcycle pants or leather chaps, and leather motorcycle gloves. Motorcycle boots can further help to keep you safe during your riding. When selecting boots, it is important to choose ones that are sturdy, comfortable, and waterproof.
Myth #4: It is preferable to stay in a single lane rather than to split lanes
Unfortunately, California is the only state in the U.S., where late-splitting by motorcycles is legal. However, researchers have discovered that when traffic is slow and heavy, splitting lanes is in fact slightly safer than remaining in the same lane. Although it is uncertain whether lane-splitting will become legal in more states, it is safer than many people believe it to be.
Motorcyclists should be able to recognize which motorcycle safety tips are real, and which ones are myths. That is because ultimately, you should not base your safety on beliefs that experts have not validated. Instead, make sure to know the truth about motorcycle safety. Your well-being makes it worthwhile
Article curtesy of ezinearticles.com
Disclaimer: www.motorcycle-leather-gear.com and www.openroadcyclegear.com are wholey owned by RobyCo, Inc. of Reading Pennsylvania. Excerpt articles do not represent the management opinions of RobyCo, Inc or its holdings. Selected information is provided for discussion purposes.