Knowing What to Expect If You’ve Never Owned a Motorcycle
Motorcycle ownership is on the rise in the United States. Just a couple of decades ago, the number of registered bikes in America was around 4.2 million. Today, that figure has surged to well over 8 million and is expected to continue to grow during the years to come. As more people think about all the joys and advantages of riding, the fever is sure to spread. For anyone who have never owned a motorcycle, though, a few unexpected situations might arise after you make your way into the biker world.
Exploring Some of the More Common Unexpected Factors
If you’re considering a Harley purchase in the near future, you’ll undoubtedly run into a few developments you might not be fully prepared for. Many of them are aspects newcomers simply have to learn as they go, but we’re here to bring some of them to your attention. Take a look at some of the more common unexpected elements of being a motorcycle owner and rider as you search for the perfect bike to purchase.
1.) Maintenance is Crucial
This may seem like a no-brainer, but many new riders aren’t quite prepared for the maintenance needs of a motorcycle. This makes for a few unexpected expenses along the way. You can save a bit of money by purchasing the essentials and doing some of the work yourself, though. At the same time, failing to keep up with routine maintenance could put a serious damper on some of your road trips.
2.) Rain Is a Problem
Many people give little thought to the possibility of getting caught in the rain while on a motorcycle. After all, how much harm can a little rain do? First of all, those raindrops feel like bullets hitting you when you’re going down the road. Rain can also reduce visibility when it’s making its way into your helmet and safety glasses. On top of all that, rain suits aren’t always completely waterproof.
3.) Insects Are a Serious Threat
Few experiences quite compare to having a massive bumblebee hit your face while you’re riding. They’ll mar your field of vision, and some have even been known to shatter safety glasses and cause black eyes. On top of that, it’s impossible to pull over fast enough to remedy the situation when a spider or bee finds its way into your clothing. Though some police officers and passersby are more understanding than others, shedding your clothing on the side of the road is generally frowned upon.
4.) Other Drivers Can’t Be Trusted
Bikers have to be incredibly aware of other vehicles on the road. People are notorious for pulling out in front of motorcycles, cutting them off during lane changes, and even crashing headlong into them. Most insist they didn’t even see the motorcycles they hit or have near misses with. Don’t expect many other drivers to look out for you or even be mindful of your presence.
5.) Respect Is Important
Being respectful of your fellow bikers is crucial. Never pass up an opportunity to do the biker wave unless it’s just not safe to do so. If you see another biker stranded on the side of the road, have the courtesy to stop and offer help. The biker community is a close-knit one, and if you show due respect, you’ll always get it in return.
Enjoying Your Motorcycle Experiences
Riding a motorcycle isn’t the same as traveling the roads in a passenger vehicle. Traffic lights and other drivers are largely blind to bikers. Something as seemingly harmless as rain or a bumblebee can pose a serious threat. Maintenance and respect are of the utmost importance. Those are only a few of the things you should be aware of while making your way through the world of motorcycle ownership.