Harley-Davidson® Motorcycle Safety

Riding a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle is a thrilling experience. But what makes it fun also makes it a safety risk. After all, you are traveling at top speeds next to massive vehicles! Safety is a crucial part of the motorcycle lifestyle. We rounded up the top tips for staying safe on your Harley-Davidson® motorcycle below. If you need any gear or maintenance before your next trip, visit Lake Shore Harley-Davidson®. We proudly serve those in Chicagoland, Illinois. 

Inspecting Your Harley-Davidson® Motorcycle

A small issue now can turn into a big issue when you're speeding down the highway. Mechanical issues derail your trip since you'll need to locate a mechanic nearby. More importantly, some issues can be a big safety threat. That's why it's important to give your Harley-Davidson® motorcycle a thorough inspection before you leave. That way, you can catch issues and get them fixed before your ride.

Start with your tires. Is there enough tread? How about air pressure? Next, check your fluids. Do you have enough or do you need to top something off? Are the liquids the right color and consistency? Next, test your brakes and throttle. Does everything function as it should? If you notice anything out of the ordinary, take it in for maintenance long before your next ride.  

Gear Up

You don't need to change your clothes when you hop in a car. But driving a car is different than riding a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle. With a bike, you don't have the luxury of a metal frame protecting you from the elements. You are exposed to the weather and will need to take the proper precautions. 

Start by strapping on a helmet. You need the protection in case you get into a crash. Riding gloves help you maintain proper grip rather than suffering from shivering or sweaty, slippery hands. Full-length outerwear guards your sensitive skin against the harsh sun's rays. Check out the Harley-Davidson® line of motorcycle apparel. They offer plenty of quality options such as clothing reinforced with leather or synthetic materials that'll give better protection than normal clothing. 

Check the Weather

As much as you wish it weren't the case, your ride will be affected by the weather. It's important to not get caught off-guard. If there is expected heavy rains, stay home. Wet roads become a safety hazard. If there is only light rain in the forecast, pack waterproof outerwear. 

Another situation to be on the lookout for is high temperatures. Hot days make dehydration, heat stroke, sunburns, and other health issues much more likely. You'll want to use sunscreen, bring extra water, and avoid riding in the hottest parts of the day.  

Stay Alert

The last key tip about safe riding of your Harley-Davidson® motorcycle is staying alert. You need to be focused to adapt to all the hazards the road throws at you. Animals dart in your path. Distracted drivers veer into your lane. Hidden potholes hop out of nowhere. Focus is key to adjusting and avoiding the incident. 

Make sure you get plenty of sleep before your ride. Eat to avoid a blood sugar drop (and the following dip in focus). Take breaks throughout your ride as well. With a little proactivity, you'll be able to remain on the road safely and longer.

For all your Harley-Davidson® motorcycle needs, visit Lake Shore Harley-Davidson®. Check out our wide selection of new and used motorcycles for sale. We also run a parts replacement and service department that can repair your ride. Our experts will get it running like new in no time! We proudly serve those in Chicagoland, Lake Ville, and Round Lake, Illinois.