Motorcycle Outlets Are So Cool
For the two-wheeled enthusiasts and lovers who enjoy riding motorbikes; you will agree that motor bikes offer awesome experiences on the roads.
This means that you not only enjoy the convenience of navigating easily through traffic. But there is the joy of sight-seeing great landscapes and the fun. Along with the thrilling sensation, as you ride along the roads in full speed; while performing some breath-taking maneuverings.
Maybe it’s the risks involved in riding a motorcycle; which makes the experience more thrilling and heightens the level of fun; while being so close to the purest forms of nature. As well as beautiful sceneries too; whose presence makes a biking adventure quite overwhelming. While all along causing negligible damage to Mother Nature; since the emissions of carbon from the bikes are minimal than it would be the case of a four-wheeled machine.
The affordability of using less fuel; while being able to access most parking lots, mostly for free. Along with the ease of commuting; all make motorbike experiences quiet fun to contemplate.
Think of the costs of affording one as well as the maintenance costs; and you will agree why a two-wheeler is what you need to go for.
I almost forgot the swag on the roads
The two-wheeler regards itself as the ‘Prince of the Highway’; because of the cool swag it invariably exudes to its riders whenever they ride by a group of people. Or when just packed. There is a sense of freedom; which emanates making the rider feel confidence and likable.
However, I started out life in a small town with a single mother who raised me in the quiet cornfields of the Midwest in a large house. Her mother; my grandmother; left to us. Nevertheless, I went through high school and played on the basketball team. I excelled at countless sports as a teenager; even into adulthood. Therefore, I started training to become an amateur mixed martial arts fighter in the Midwest; going to places like Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota and Wisconsin to compete with others. They would punch, kick and wrestle other opponents inside a cage for cash prizes or bragging rights.
That led me to bicycling for training
This I did; then eventually decided to embark on a bike trip across the country. I have traveled the United States, Canada, Mexico, South America and Western Europe. Then I got robbed in Peru and Mexico. Like always, I love learning new languages. All of these moments in my life have culminated up to the point that I bought my first dream motorcycle.
My life in my teens and 20s proved that I am a thrill seeker and adventurist; as well as a hobbyist and outdoors enthusiast. The bottom line is that like to maintain excitement in my life. This must be the reaction in me to the monotony of the Midwestern living that brought expectation and predictability with it.
A departure from this is most refreshing for the soul
We all have to rest, at least sometimes. I decided to rest after my grandmother passed away from breast cancer. Then I decided to really get serious about both my health and my fitness after that; so I began dieting better and working out again in serious routine.
My grandmother left me her motorcycle after she died from the advanced stages of breast cancer. That claimed so many lives in my country and around the world. It was practically brand new and she had only ridden it a few times with a former boyfriend (my grandfather and her separated long ago.. He moved abroad).
Riding this motorcycle actually made me get into shape
Because I knew that the motorcycle had officially replaced my bicycle; finally I was motivated to stay in shape through working out and eating better. Every day after completing a grueling workout routine, I would reward myself with a ride on the highway on my hog. I love that feeling of freedom and exhilaration. The wind blowing past my face and the world in front of me, it seems as if I am totally free; if just for a few moments in time.
However, I have taken a lot of risks in my life and done risky things. I was robbed at gunpoint in another country where nobody speaks English. Therefore, I have engaged in rough physical activity through sports like martial arts, wrestling and boxing. I have been seriously wounded when on camping excursions across the North American wilderness. This is the nature of a young thrill seeker and someone that knows what true freedom really is.
Freedom is something unique.
It means you are free to take risks and accept responsibility for the outcome from those risks. But I am aging into my 30s now and I have children to take care of; as well as a demanding relationship with my fiancé. She wasn’t thrilled about the motorcycle I got as a gift until later on.
I try not take too many risks on my motorcycle; as riding it is already a big risk anyway; plus since my grandmother died from breast cancer I have had a newfound appreciation for the fragile nature of life itself. Somehow, I feel like my grandmother knew that this motorcycle would be the greatest gift she could leave me in terms of physical, material goods. She knew that it would mean more than simply having a shiny new toy. Although, I would remember her by this vehicle that represents freedom and excitement, everything my grandma loved so much about me.
I learned a great deal about myself after owning this motorcycle. Riding gave me the moments of clarity needed to grow into adulthood; as I was able to reflect on my choices in life and what makes me tick. The motorcycle has become an extension of myself.
Recent Posts:
How a Motorcycle Adventure Claimed the life of My Wife
The thought that life can be quickly lost without any warning had never crossed my mind because I had never experienced any saddening accident or event which was life threatening in my life. I had been married for three years and my wife and I made quiet a happy family. We did most of the things together and complemented each other in great ways and one such way; which I wouldn’t agree before was fatal was biking.
My wife and I loved to bike in the woods on weekends. On hot afternoon, we decided to go our usual hike out in the woods and enjoy the beautiful afternoon nap there as we drunk a drink or two; which she had packed. Of course we never used to wear protective gear in our escapades as we were presumed ourselves mature enough to over speed.
There is also a fact that our biking adventures were scheduled when it’s hot. We felt that we needed some airing. This could be achieved better by not wearing protective gear.
Each riding a motorbike, we set out for the woods
Everything went according to plan but I was experiencing some stomach upset; so I didn’t even l drink half of my share of the beer that we had packed. Seeing this, my wife went on to exceed her drinking limit by helping herself with the extra share. This was meant for me although against my will. Anyway, I saw nothing wrong with that since home was just a few miles from where we were. She was always very cautious at doing anything silly.
When evening came, we decided that it was time to ride home; and off we started our ride back home. We biked in slow pace for almost half a mile; before I realized that she had started to accelerate. I called back to warn her and she childishly loved and increased her speed. Then I went after her; the faster I approached her; the faster she biked in order that I don’t reach her. She seemed to enjoy playing this game with me. Knowing how dangerous this was, the fact that she might have been carried by the beers we were taking; I started to shout back at her loudly as we approached the highway.
Mistake
When she heard me shouting for her to slow down, we were already approaching the junction exiting to the highway and then she happened to look back. Maybe she was thinking that something had happened to me. That’s why I was shouting. This was something I had never done before.
Sad enough, a truck was approaching fast and in a split of a second I never knew what happened The reason was because my life was there on the road all soaked in blood. Quickly I called emergency response who arrived minutes later.
She was rushed to the hospital and several surgeries performed. But it was too late. She had suffered significant blood loss and had damaged internal organs. Thus, she died later while at the hospital. How I can’t help regret and blame myself all what transpired prior to her accident. Maybe we should have always considered wearing protective clothing and gear; she would still be alive.
How I Almost got Killed by a Motorcycle
I had owned my bike since my 16th birthday when it was bought as a present to me by my uncle. By my 17th birthday, I was already a proficient rider. With that said, I was very confident about riding this two wheeled rider that I would hang out in the neighborhood most of the evenings after school.
However, that’s the furthest I would ride the bike since my dad was strict about riding further away; since I had not yet received my license.
One day during the summer
I felt so bored at home since I had been alone at home all day. And in the afternoon, I felt that I needed to experiment off road driving in the walk trails. Nevertheless, I made myself promise that I wouldn’t speed more than 50mph. Hence there would be minimal chances of attracting any attention; from the authorities or causing any road accident.
I prepared myself and made sure that I had correctly wore the necessary safety gear, the helmet, gloves, leather jacket and boots. Then I figured out that they too could help mask my familiarity as well as protect me in case anything happens. Ready for my adventure, I hit the road and veered to the highway leading to the dusty trail.
However, I spent the whole afternoon just riding in the trail. Having a time experimenting different riding tricks; since there were few people in the trails. Hence I saw minimal risks of collision. Therefore, I was really excited about the whole experiment. By evening, when heading home; I didn’t realize that my ecstasy had made me accelerate too fast in just seconds. As I came around sharp curve, I tried braking. But I was too late to control the bike against an in-coming saloon car.
Everything happened too fast
What I could recall was the screams and yells that I let out as I lay on the road side writhing in pain. I don’t know when I passed out. But I awoke at the hospital with a plastered leg and a bandaged hand; and my mum in tears on my bedside.
Nonetheless, I had been unconscious for almost eight hours; during which the doctors tried to save my life by treating me. I felt so sorry for myself and my ignorance. Dad was too at the hospital that better part night and seemed mad at me though he could say it. But, however, his soft speaking concealed his disappointed in failing to heed his instructions. Lucky enough according to the doctors; the protective gear was what saved my life.
I knew that it would take long for me to fully recuperate but one thing; which I knew for sure was that I would not be allowed to bike for a very long time.
Safety Gear and Clothing used by Motorbikers
Cyclists needs to wear protective clothing and gear so as to keep safe while cycling. These protective clothing helps them remain safe even after a crash on the road or an accidents. To improve motorcycle safety many nations worldwide requires motor-bikers to wear protective clothing; like helmets, gloves, armor, boots and jacket.
Cyclists should wear protective clothing when on the roads to protect themselves against injuries; from falling off; or perhaps hitting other riders as well as bikes. This ensures they are fully protected in case of the unlikely event of an accident.
There are several number of protective clothing that can be looked out by motor-bikers…
Gloves
Generally most of the gloves in the market are made of leather. They are usually worn on hands. They protects cyclists wrists from injuries and also drafts in colder climates. The best material for gloves is leather since it offers good protection during crush. They should be fitting and able to cover your hand and wrist fully. They also need to be waterproof.
Motorcycle Helmet
These are protective gear that are used by motorcycle riders. It is usually worn in the head hence described as headgear. Its main aim is to protect the rider’s head from injuries during impact. Especially the face. Wearing a helmet reduces injuries and increases chances of surviving a crash. Also while riding, specks or other elements in the air; such as insects could easily cause distraction. Hence accidents if a rider has no helmet worn. The speck or insect finds its way to the riders eyes.
The helmet you are wearing should be fully fit. You should be able to see clearly.
Motorcycle Armour
It protects motorcycle riders from accident. They are mainly fitted on shoulders, knees, elbows, hips, chest as well as in the back.
Motorcycle Boots
These are shoes worn by motorcycle riders to reduce or prevent harm to their feet. They also offer protection on the heels. Owing that legs are the likely part to be injured during an accident; cyclists should wear boots to minimize chances of being injured. They should be comfortable and fitting so as to be able to control yourself while riding. They need to be waterproof so as to protect cold on your legs.
Motorcycle Jacket
Jackets offers protection in case of an accident. They also protects the rider from cold weather. A jacket should be heavy and fitting; and made from a material that does not crush easily on the road surface. By doing so you will be able to protect your a rider from cold wind. A jacket should be able to cover you fully, so as to avoid leaving some parts uncovered; which may be injured in case of an accident.
Observing Safety Precautions While Riding Your Motorcycle
Riding a motor cycle is a common means of transport. It’s popular for various reasons like being cheap and convenient, great exercise; which allows you to rush-hour.
Road accident has been a serious issue over the recent years. Most accidents in the recent past have occurred among motor cycle riders. This is because they seem to be ignorant of the safety procedures to observe while on the roads.
The main cause could lack of knowledge about safety rules to conserve while cycling. Many motorcyclists drive carelessly and unknowingly and end up causing uncertainties in the road.
Motorcycles are few in in our roads than cars, but account for great number of road user deaths. Many people put off the idea of cycling. The reason is because they don’t like it; especially in traffic. But their others who use busy roads every time without a problem. This is because they cycle safely and make sure that drivers know they are there. Once you know the basics of road cycling you will ever enjoy this journey.
Here are some simple road safety for cyclists :
- Make sure that motorists and drivers can see you. This is by riding in a position where you will be seen using lights; especially in bad weather. You can also make eye contact with other road users; especially at junctions so as to note if the road is clear. Lastly, not all pedestrians can see you so it’s good to use your bell.
- Being aware of vehicles. Cyclists may cause collisions when the vehicle are turning left or right. This is brought about by assuming the vehicle is moving straight. It’s good to keep back of the vehicle until it moves off. Also observe signals indicated by the moving car to determine the action that the driver needs to take.
- Cycle training. This is a good option especially for those who are not familiar with cycling or they haven’t cycled before. It will help them develop skills; and increase the level of confidence when cycling in busy routes or traffic.
- Wearing the helmet to protect them from injuries in case of an accident.
- You should keep left and give appropriate signals when changing lanes or turning to the other side.
- As a cyclists your bike should be properly maintained. This is achieved by frequent check-ups, inflating the tires and ensuring that the brakes are well functioning.
- Maintaining low speeds is also a major consideration; especially in busy streets so as to be able to counter any obstructions on the way. Also, for maximum control when going downhill.
- For trucks and other heavy vehicles ahead of you; you should wait for them to turn before you move ahead.
continuing…
It’s clear that if we obey the above tips we will be safe when cycling in our roads. Respecting other road users helps one benefit from traveling by road.
Click here to forward on to the next topic about Banbury and it’s interesting airports and people.
