The #1 motorcycle safety tip : the helmet is not the only piece of the safety solution

The pros and cons of wearing a motorcycle helmet is the object of many debates. While studies conducted by governments suggest that the helmet is an effective protection, others argue that these studies are far from being conclusive and do not address potential problems such as vision limitations and the impact of the helmet on the back and spine. Much focus is put on wearing the motorcycle helmet. However this is not the only motorcycle safety tip you should know about.

The protective apparel, as a whole, worn by a motorcyclist provides the best defense against injury in a crash. This apparel includes a Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (DOT) (FMVSS) 218 compliant motorcycle helmet, heavy-duty jacket and pants, boots, gloves, and eye protection. In addition, the proper education and training of the motorcycle rider is a key element of effective motorcycle safety. A quality training program should include the following issues, full of motorcycle safety tips :

1) Proper riding gear

2) Night visibility and proper functionning of headlights

3) Appropriate pre-ride inspection and maintenance

4) Appropriate use of brakes

5) Ability to "read" road conditions and ride accordingly

6) Riding positions

7) Riding with a passenger

8) Personal judgment and conduct

9) Load carrying

10) Road and traffic rules

If you would like to get more information on motorcycle safety tips, here is a review of two great books on the subject :

MOTORCYCLE SAFETY FOUNDATION'S GUIDE TO MOTORCYCLING EXCELLENCE : SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND STRATEGIES FOR RIDING RIGHT by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation Staff : Nate Rauba (Editor) and Hector Cademartori (Illustrator)

Here is a book for the motorcyclist who wants to do it right, the most complete, authoritative book ever published on safe riding techniques and strategies. The book covers rider attitude, proper dress, motorcycle helmet and other safety accessories, performance, maintenance and troubleshooting, as well as basic and advanced street skills. Here is a great motorcycle safety tip , check out the book !


STREET STRATEGIES: A SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR MOTORCYCLISTS by David L. Hough

This is a well organized book providing real life examples of motorcycle safety tips and riding hazards and advice on how to avoid or get out of those hazards, should they occur. This book is a MUST for any serious motorcycle rider ! For more information on this book, click here