Ride Like an Aviator: The Ultimate Motorcycle Safety Checklist

Introduction: The Aviator Mentality

Let's talk about what makes an aviator tick! I like the mindset of people who take to the skies. A great aviator has a certain way of thinking, an attitude that sets them apart. We're going to start with an introduction to the aviator mentality.

Riding a motorcycle is a lot like flying a plane. You need to be on your toes at all times. If you think about it, pilots always go through a routine before taking off to make sure everything is in order. It makes sense that we motorcycle riders can learn a thing or two from them. By doing some checks we can avoid a lot of issues and just enjoy the ride. This post is about creating a checklist that can help motorcycle riders stay safe and focused on the road, kind of like a pilot in the cockpit.

The Pre Ride Checklist

You know how pilots go through a checklist before takeoff to make sure everything is in order? They walk around the exterior of the plane to visually inspect the components of the aircraft. It's a great idea to do the same before you head out on your bike. Having a ride checklist can be a total game changer. Not only will it help you avoid any surprises down the line, but it will also give you peace of mind.

Let's be honest! Taking off without checking your ride is a recipe for disaster. I mean pilots don't just hop in a plane and hit the skies. They go through a checklist to make sure everything is working like it should. Same goes for motorcycles. You should always give yours the once over before you head out. It is smart sense. Here's a list to help you stay on track because you want to catch any problems before they leave you stranded on the side of the road. Give your bike a look to make sure all systems are go. So what should be on your list? Let's start with the basics. You'll be much safer, for it!

• Make sure to check your tire pressure. Look for nails or screws that might be in the contact patch or sidewall. It's crucial that the PSI is at the level the manufacturer recommends. This is a check that can make a difference in how your bike handles. If the pressure is off it can affect your bike's safety and performance, so take a minute to get it right.

• Take a look at the drive train. Check that the chain has the right tension and is well lubricated, or the belt has the correct amount of tension. You don't want it too loose or too tight. That could cause problems! Just make sure everything is running smoothly. Now you're good to go.

• When you're on the bars, it's pretty basic. Your turn signals need to be working. This ones a no brainer but it's easy to overlook. So double check that all your turn indicators are in shape and doing their job.

• Check your lights to make sure you can see and be seen. Give your headlights, brake lights, and any extra lights the once over to ensure they're all working properly. This is crucial for visibility especially when driving at night or in bad weather.

• Take a listen to your horn. Is it actually working like it should? You want to make sure it's loud and clear enough to grab the attention of drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians on the road. A functional horn is crucial for safety, so give it a test to confirm it's in working order.

• Take a look at the suspension to see if its worn out or has any damage to it. Check to make sure your fork seals aren't leaking! This is another preventative step because you don't want any surprises down the road.

• When it comes to brakes you want to make sure everything is working smoothly. So take a minute to check your brake fluid levels and top them off if necessary. Inspect the rotors and look at the pads. If they're low you're not going to get the braking power you need. That way you can be sure your brakes are going to do their job when you need them to.

• Take a gander at your throttle and clutch cables. Make sure they're not frayed or kinked up. A little damage can cause problems down the line. It's worth checking them out.

• To drive safely you need to be able to see what's around you. So take a minute to adjust your mirrors. It's easy to get rid of blind spots and get a clear view of what's behind you. Properly aligned mirrors make a difference.

That's a simple way to stay safe on the road! Make a mental checklist before you head out like a pilot going through their pre flight routine. This can really help cut down on failures and accidents. It's common sense but it can make a big difference. By being a bit more thorough and methodical, riders can minimize their risk of something going wrong.

Road and weather. Two things that can make or break your commute. It's pretty crucial to stay aware about the condition of the roads you'll be traveling on. Knowing if it is raining, icy, or even just a gorgeous sunny day can make a difference in how you plan your trip. When you're aware of the road conditions you can take the steps to stay safe. Staying on top of the weather forecast is also a no brainer. You don't want to get caught off guard by a downpour or heatwave at your destination. By keeping an eye on the forecast, you can dress accordingly and plan your route. Seasoned riders can spot storm clouds from a distance, check the radar on the cell phone, and change their route on the fly. Literally!

It's also a good idea to keep an eye on road conditions like closures or construction. This can be a huge time saver and make your trip a lot safer. Let's face it, things don't always go as planned when you're on the road. Being able to roll with the punches is key to great riding.

So you want to take your ride to the next level! The answer is, riding a motorcycle can be a great experience if you think like a pilot. I mean those guys are obsessively careful before they take off. Thats what you should do before hitting the road. Going through a ride checklist and keeping an eye on the road and weather conditions can make a huge difference. It's common sense. If you're going to fly you prepare for everything that could possibly go wrong. So why not do the same when you're on your bike? It's not that hard to stay safe and have a good time. Just be ready for whatever the road throws at you. That's the key, ride on!

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