Common motorcycle mistakes can be easy to avoid. Here are some riding errors to watch out for on your motorbike.
Riding a motorcycle is fun. It provides a unique combination of freedom, speed, and closeness to the open road that few other activities can match. But the same things that make motorcycling exciting can also make it dangerous. Each time a rider gets on their bike, they face a series of risks that are different from those encountered when driving a car. In fact, despite being 3% of all registered vehicles, motorcyclists accounted for 14.6% of all fatalities on the road in 2022, according to the National Safety Council.
While there are important tips every new motorcycle rider should know, experienced riders can sometimes make mistakes, too — so whether you’re a seasoned rider honing your skills or a newbie looking to explore the roads on two wheels, understanding these common mistakes can significantly improve your safety and enjoyment. Some of them are things you probably didn’t even realize were mistakes. Even after ten years of riding motorcycles, I still find myself making and correcting mistakes. Constantly learning is just the nature of riding bikes. In the spirit of sharing what I’ve learned over the years with fellow riders, I have tried to pack as much detail as I can to identify, understand, and correct motorcycling mistakes. So, here are five of the most common ones.Not wearing proper gear
When riding a motorbike, wearing the right gear is more than just following the law or being comfortable. In the event of a crash, your gear is the only line of defense that could mean the difference between minor injuries and life-altering consequences. So, here are the most critical gear every rider should prioritize.
A helmet is not just a legal requirement — it’s a lifesaver. Whether it’s a traumatic brain injury, facial scarring, or even death, the right helmet can dramatically reduce these risks. While options vary, prioritize a helmet that meets safety standards like DOT, ECE, or Snell. Choose a full-face helmet if possible; it offers the best protection by covering the entire head and face, protecting your skull, brain, and face from direct impacts and debris.
In a crash, your hands are likely to hit the ground first, risking severe injuries like broken wrists and mangled fingers, so proper motorcycle gloves are also a must-have. Make sure the ones you choose are reinforced and armored, to protect against road rash and absorb impacts. You will also need boots. A good pair of bike boots can prevent ankle fractures and keep your feet securely attached to your body, and it’s even better if they come with non-slip soles, as falling over in public can be embarrassing.
