Here at Beach House Harley-Davidson®, we want all our customers to be safe. The road is full of potential hazards that bikers need to be able to recognize and avoid. That is why we have created this guide to preventing motorcycle crashes.

Stay Visible

While being able to see is an important component of safe motorcycle riding, it is equally important that others are able to see you. This is especially true during nighttime rides, as visibility is lower and other drivers may not be as focused as they should be. By wearing brightly-colored clothing or adding reflective strips to your attire, you can make yourself more visible and give other motorists more time to react to your presence. You can also try riding in a group, as a pack of motorcycles is obviously much easier to notice than a single rider. 

Keep Riding Skills Sharp

Some motorcycle accidents are simply the result of user error. If you are inexperienced, not used to how your current bike handles, or have just become rusty, slow things down and take fewer risks until you are confident in your ability to control your motorcycle. If necessary, take a motorcycle riding course. 

Improve Your Own Visibility

Your own visibility is another factor to consider. Those who do a lot of night riding should consider upgrading from the standard headlights to a set of LEDs. If you use a windshield, make sure that it is kept well-cleaned so that you can see through it. A helmet shield or goggles with anti-fogging capacities can also be useful in staving off visibility problems. 

Stay in Control of Your Motorcycle

Take steps to ensure that you are always in control of your motorcycle. Wear riding gloves for better grip under adverse conditions. Make sure that your motorcycle fits you well. Finally, be mindful of conditions like snow, rain, or gravel that can affect traction, and be ready to drive defensively when you encounter them. 

Keep Your Motorcycle Maintained

A properly maintained motorcycle is less likely to experience mechanical issues at an inopportune time. Stick to your motorcycle’s maintenance schedule and promptly address any problems that crop up. Doing so can drastically decrease your chances of suffering an accident. 

For more information or to view our selection of new and pre-owned motorcycles, visit Beach House Harley-Davidson® in Shallotte, North Carolina. We also offer financing, insurance, and apparel. We are proud to serve the Brunswick County, North Carolina area, and we hope to hear from you soon.