[Houndguy]

Our very own Daboo posted this in another forum we both belong to. I enjoyed it so much I wanted to share it, I did a search but didn't see it posted anywhere else on this board.

Sorry if I am stealing any of his thunder. I think it's good info if you're a daily commuter like me or just a fair weather weekend rider. The tips just might save your life: http://www.sportrider.com/ride/146_9508_motorcycle_riding_tips/

:wav:

 

[Daboo]

One of the things to remember when you read this, is it isn't about making the other person responsible for your safety. All the tips they bring up are about making you responsible for your own safety.

It has nothing to do with gadgets, lights, reflective tape, etc. being added to a bike. Just you.

Chris

 

[Houndguy]

Actually Daboo I was referring to the Year Round Riders Forum but your link works fine as well.

 

[knucklehead]

Excellent article. I guess I've been riding like that for the past 47 years and haven't been run over by another bike or car --- yet! I'm always watchful though. I didn't start riding having in mind to be defensive but I've turned defensive over the years. That same attitude has carried over to when I'm on 4 tires too.

One thing not mentioned in that article is how to ride freeways safely. I view the center lane(s) as a means to get to the fast or slow lanes - I never ride them if traffic is at all busy. Its bad enough having a car try to run you off the road while in the fast or slow lanes but there is no where to go if you are in a center lane - that next lane over may well be occupied and you don't want to be forced into it. I'll take my chances in the break-down lane.

 

[dgithens1]

Thanks for the post, it was really informative!

 

[joeyorav]

Often novice velo-commuters are overly preoccupied with their ride times. There's a difference between riding and racing and commuting definitiely falls in the first category. If you constantly arrive spent and sweaty then you're doing something wrong.

 

[ChipDoc]

I notice you said novice velo-commuters. After you've been doing it a while, the novelty wears off and you grow more comfortable. I've been commuting for 13 years and I get into a zen-like state where I'm both hyper-aware and relaxed. And yes, I do sometimes go romping around on the back roads on the way home!

 

[Chappy]

Great read... Thanks ode boy!