subject: Motorbikes - Here's How To Get Started [print this page] If you've ever driven a car or even been driven in one then you are intimately familiar with the semi suicidal thoughts that run through your mind as you fume and inhale fumes from other motorists vehicles. The situation is worsened if it is high summer and you are also sweating in the heat. Now that we are all intimate with the scenario, a guy dashes past your car on a motorbike cruising in what, in your minds eye, can only be calm breeze straight from an exotic Hawaiian island. That is the color of envy.
Motorbikes are indeed any traffic haters' second true love, after a green light of course. But before you sell off your car here are some useful tips to take into account when venturing out into your first foray in the 'fast lane'.
1. Safety first
Always wear your helmet. Most enthusiasts will tell you and I agree, that it gets a little tedious as you get more used to machine and more familiar with the roads and so on. But motorbikes are dangerous and you never know when an unfortunate event can occur, in which case the helmet can be the difference between a bad bruise and permanent brain damage. Have two helmets if you regularly travel with a companion, your passenger is as much at risk as you are.
Another aspect of safety is that you must be aware to the conditions in which you are driving, watch out for debris on the road or an oil slick as these can result in an accident.
2. Get your apparel right
It may seem showy every time you watch a movie with bikers in it and they all have these leather chaps on, but it really is just practical to wear leather when riding motorbikes. You may also want to include a sound pair of boots and throw in some extra clothing in your luggage rack. You never know when you may need to change.
3. Your luggage
Some of the more traditional luggage carried around apart from your spare apparel, would be a rain suit. This can come in handy should the sunny day you rode off into change for a slight tempest.
These days you can carry luggage for your motorbike as well, recommended items include spare parts and a tool kit, just in case something goes wrong and you need to sort it out.
As far as the luggage carrier is concerned, there are several options available. You can use a motorcycle trailer which offers a lot more storage space and is ideal for a long trip especially if you are accompanied on the trip. Or you can use a saddle bag if you are only carrying the bare essentials.
4. Enjoy yourself Motorbikes are relatively expensive to acquire brand new, and are fairly easy to maintain. Once you make the leap remember that every ride is a chance to experience a unique and rare sensation. Don't get too caught up in the details and forget to enjoy the ride.
