Things You Should Know When Operating A Motorcycle

   The modern motorcycle was established by 1914 and has used the same fundamentals ever since. Since 1998, the number of motorcycles in the United States has increased by 34 percent. With gas prices increasing to an all time high, motorcycles are more efficient when it comes to fuel economy. A motorcycle can get as high as 85 mile per gallon. Which provides an alternative to gas guzzling cars.

  Riding a motorcyle though, is much different than driving a car. When operating a two wheel vehicle instead of a vehicle with four, the motorcycle will tend to fall over when coming to a stop unless you put your feet down. A moving motorcycle has gyroscopic forces that only help the rider stay in control of his or her bike. Steering a motorcycle is a very simple process, the rider turns the handlebar in the direction  he or she wishes to go. "This will only work at lower speeds". When making any kind turn always look in your mirrors, knowing what vehicles are behind you. At higher speeds, the rider must use a different way to steer the motorcycle, this is called counter steering. The rider will actually push on the handlebar left or right. So remember, push left, turn left, push right, turn right.

  Whether you are riding in the city or the open highway, always stay out of a cars blind spot and never ride directly in the center of your lane. This gives you more options in case of an emergency, a flat tire, on coming traffic, a vehicle right next to you, debris in the road ect... Now, braking on a motorcycle is very important. When you apply the brakes you should always use the front and the rear brakes, this gives you more stopping power. According to the CHP, locking up the rear brakes is a major factor when comes to motorcycle crashes. If you are stopping at a traffic light, keep both front and rear brakes depressed, this way if the vehicle behind you happens to take their foot off the brake and push against your bike they will less likely be able to push into the intersection. I can not say enough about using the proper gear when it comes to riding a motorcycle. This applies to all street and dirt. Long sleeves and long pants, always. I owuld suggest to any novice rider to enroll in a motorcycle safety course which are offered everywhere. Well I hope this helps you when riding your motorcycle and remember to always help your fellow motorcyclist. As we motorcycle riders say, stay up on two wheels.