Although riding a motorcycle might be exciting, safety should always come first. At Tennessee Auto Insurance Agency, our client's safety is in our best interests. So, we have compiled a list of tips to help you ride your motorcycle safely this summer.

1. Keep hydrated

The most significant fluid in the human body is water. When exposed to heat from the outside, the body begins to sweat. The upshot of this is that the body becomes dehydrated. Dehydration can result in fatigue, headaches, irritability, and poor focus. By making frequent stops to drink water, you can prevent this from becoming fatal in severe situations. The journey will be safer since a hydrated body will produce a focused mind. Dehydration is still a problem, even if you drink water simultaneously. You should consume water regularly.

In this circumstance, you can use a hydration pack. A hydration pack is a hydration device with a bladder where water can be stored that is designed as a waist pack or backpack. With these hydration packs, you always have access to water to keep hydrated. To be clear, we advise only drinking water and ORS or electrolytes. Do not drink tea, coffee, soft drinks, or energy drinks because they further dehydrate the body.

Furthermore, avoid cycling, if possible, during the hottest hours of the day because high heat can cause exhaustion and other health problems. If you must ride in the heat, wear proper clothing and pause frequently.

2. Dress in ventilated clothing

In terms of summer clothes, ventilation is crucial. When it comes to comfort, the base layer is vital. This layer needs to be moisture-wicking to vaporize sweat and absorb it, keeping the body dry and cool. Even though cotton is a lightweight fiber that absorbs moisture but does not expel it, wearing it can make you feel damp. Nylon and polyester materials, on the other hand, are excellent at absorbing and releasing moisture, making them your go-to base layer option in the summer.

Summertime does not automatically mean that you may ignore safety. Wearing your helmet, riding jacket, riding pants, gloves, and boots is always required. But the material you choose should encourage airflow and keep you feeling fabulous. All sweat evaporates when wearing riding jackets, pants, and perforated gloves made of ventilated textiles with mesh inserts. This keeps the body moisturized and cool while assisting in stabilizing body temperature. You can use a cooling vest over time. These vests cool both the surface and the interior of the body. Damp neck tubes will also keep you cool and cozy.

You might have a tinted visor on your helmet to protect your eyes from the sun. These visors will shield you from the sun's glare and dangerous UV rays. Using such visors, you might ride for extended periods and experience less eye fatigue.

Always protect your head and eyes by donning a DOT-approved helmet, eye shields, a rugged jacket, gloves, long pants, and over-the-ankle boots. The severity of injuries in an accident can be considerably decreased with the proper riding equipment.

Additionally, utilize your motorcycle's headlights at all times, including during the day, and wear bright or reflective clothes. It is easier for other drivers to see you on the road when you are more visible.

3. Inspect the tires for damage

The only point of contact between a car and the road is its tires. It is essential to take precautions to prevent the motorcycle from skidding and the road's tremendous heat from blowing out the tires. The tire pressure rises by 1.4 PSI for every 10% change in temperature. This might not seem a big concern, but it might make the difference between correctly inflated and overinflated tires. You should not disregard that a tire's sidewalls and tread harden more than usual when it is overinflated and loses contact with the road. This change in footprint may result in traction and performance loss, roughing the ride and impairing the motorcycle's handling and braking capabilities.

You should maintain proper tire pressure, repair worn-out tires, and take appropriate breaks to allow the tires to cool down in case they become overheated to prevent the tires from bursting due to heat. Additionally, you should follow the tires' speed rating and load capacity.

Conduct a complete pre-ride examination before each ride. Ensure all lights and signals are operational, check the brakes, oil, and fluid levels, and inspect the tires for proper pressure and condition.

4. Watch out for asphalt melting on tarmac roads

When subjected to constant, intense heat, the asphalt coating on roadways tends to soften. Asphalt softening can result in uneven and slick roads, making them hazardous. The weight of the traffic-moving vehicles may also impact this softening. When you drive over a section like this, the ripple effects of the motion of these large trucks on the road may cause your bike to become unsteady. Be cautious and keep an eye out for the strength of the road.

5. Taking necessary rests at regular times

You will benefit from careful planning for the ride in the summer. Starting early is always advised when the temperature is still reasonably low. Your primary priorities should be finding some cover and unwinding while the sun is straight overhead. Riding in extreme heat should be avoided because it can constantly wear you out to fight the summer heat. You must stop frequently to re-hydrate and give the motorcycle time to cool down.

Regular breaks also guarantee that you maintain focus and finish the route without incident.

6. Keep Your Focus and Alertness

Keep a vigilant eye on the road and the area around you. Be extra cautious at crossroads and when changing lanes, and avoid distractions like using a phone while riding. Additionally, follow all traffic regulations and posted speed restrictions. Following traffic laws might help keep you safe because speeding contributes to motorcycle accidents.

• Keep an eye out for road hazards, including gravel, potholes, oil spills, and debris. These dangers can be more common in the summer.
  
• Avoid Driving Under the Influence. Do not drive under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or any other substance that slows your reaction time or compromises your judgment.
  
• Turn signals are a straightforward way to express your intentions to other drivers.
• Always bike conservatively to anticipate and avoid potential hazards, assuming other drivers will not see you.

7. Pay attention to wildlife

Wildlife may be more active in warmer months, particularly at dawn and dusk. In rural locations, use caution and be ready to respond if an animal enters your path.

8. Attend a Refresher Course

Consider enrolling in a motorcycle safety course or refresher training to improve your riding abilities and enforce safe practices.

9. Keep up with local weather updates

Before starting a ride, check the weather forecast and be ready for rapid changes in the weather.

10. Purchase motorcycle insurance

Motorcycle insurance should be something you think about if you buy a motorcycle. Thinking about the risks before riding your bike on the road is essential. Accidents can happen at any time and are expensive to repair. Having motorcycle insurance can save you from paying significant out-of-pocket costs after an accident. To learn more, click here.

You may have a safer and more pleasurable summer of motorcycle riding by heeding their advice and putting safety first. To receive a quote for your motorcycle insurance, click here.

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