Motorcyclist are the most vulnerable road users. Riding a Motorcycle requires a set of skills and awareness that are different than driving a car. You need to be aware of risks of riding a motorbike, and follow the rules of the road, and be a defensive driver.
The risks that are associated with riding a Motorbike are:
Safety and protection equipment
Wearing protective clothing and equipment can provide protection from injury.
Helmet
The most important piece of protection, make sure it meets the international safety regulations, has a structure that protects the entire head, have a transparent visor to protect the eyes from air and dust, and help the rider to see clearly. It should have a strap that helps hold it firmly in place.
Gloves
It is recommended to use gloves all the time, and ones made of leather which protect the hands from excessive friction with the steering wheel.
Boots
Choose the proper type of boots that fit the type of riding you will practice. Boots have different heights, some cover the leg and some only cover the feet. They are also made of leather and other tough materials that reduce the effect of impact to the feet and legs.
Clothing
Wear proper clothing that provides protection and comfort while riding and make you visible on the road. This includes a jacket with elbow and forearm protection, and trousers that protect the knee and leg.
Eye protection
Essential to riding safely is eye protection. Googles or full-face helmet can be used.
What you should do before and during riding
• Inspect the bike before riding it using T-CLOCK (T= Tires, C=Control, L=Light & Accessories, O-Oil & Fluids, C=Chassis & Chain, K-Kickstand).
• Be visible to others and be careful all time, check the road around you using the 360-degree method.
• Don’t change your lane without concentration, and avoid riding in the blind spots of other vehicles.
• Make sure there is enough light in the front and rear sides of the bike to help others see you.
• Always think about black spots before overtaking the vehicles ahead of you, make sure to be seen by the vehicles around you, and make clear indications before moving.
• Avoid high speed or stopping suddenly and let your speed shift gradually.
• Make sure to keep a safe distance between you and other vehicle drivers, as such distance helps you see your surrounding better.
• In case there is a reckless car driver who is trying to overtake you without considering safety, allow them to overtake you and keep a safe distance between you and them.
• Check the weather, avoid riding in rainy weather and sandstorms.
• Stop when you see that the roads are covered with oil and grease, if you can’t stop avoid.