How to Prepare for Spring Riding Challenges

by | Apr 1, 2015 | Automotive

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Once you get your Alberta Motorcycle License, you will be anxious to take to the road once the weather starts to warm up. However, the spring holds some potential dangers that you should consider before you head out on the open road.

Passengers

If you are considering heading out with a passenger, you have to look really at your skills and make sure you feel you can keep them safe. It is the perfect time of year to take a little road trip with a friend. However an inexperienced driver plus an inexperienced passenger can result in disaster for riders. Are you sure you can explain to your passenger how to keep you both safe? They will have to learn to lean with you on turns to maintain balance as well as keep their feet safely on your foot pegs that can be hard, especially on a long ride. As well, they have to hold on safely to your waist that might be embarrassing for some people. Know your passenger and that you can ride with someone on the back of your bike before you decide this is a good idea.

Group Rides

For many riders, it is all about getting out there with the gang. For a new rider, this can be a little dangerous if you don’t know the proper etiquette for group rides. Make sure you remain staggered within the group, so all of you are visible to other drivers on the road. Also, you want to keep a safe distance. It is often tempting to want to ride alongside a buddy in the same lane, but this is not safe. Treat your group like you would a stranger maintaining safe driving distances to avoid risky riding and angering cars sharing the highway.

Weather

Spring weather is probably one of the most unpredictable of the four seasons. Make sure you listen very carefully to the weather forecast and keep up to date with any expected changes. Even though it is warm and sunny when you head out at noon, drops in temperatures or even cloudy conditions can allow ice to form on the roads. As well it is best to limit your planned distance of travel so you are not travelling for many hours that will lead to severe temperature or weather changes, not to mention result in you riding home in the dark.

Once you get your motorcycle license in Alberta, keep safety in mind, so you don’t ruin a perfect spring day.

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