A lot of motorcycle riders prefer riding at night, and with reason. Riding at night can be a fantastic idea. The quietness, serenity, and peace of the roads can offer a very relaxing ride. Nights also provide low temperatures for breezy bike trips.
A lot of riders also do this out of necessity. Night traveling is a lot more bearable than riding under the scorching sun. Motorcycle riders also ride their bikes after work with the sun already set.
Despite all these good reasons, night motorcycle riding can be hazardous. The darkness of the night limits eye visibility, and the busy roads due to rush hours could potentially endanger your well-being. But, we won’t discourage you from riding in the wee hours!
There’s no need to put your bike away simply because the sun has gone down. You can increase your riding time with some decent quality lights, appropriate gear for motorcycle riders, and the correct mindset. Here are some quick tips you need to know for your night bike riding:
1. Light it up
Visibility is one of the most significant difficulties of night cycling. Not every road has effectively lit street lights. Thus, the dark limits the visibility of your path, warranting potential danger from potholes and unseen hazards.
In addition, you and your bike are less likely to be recognized due to the lack of lights. This absence of lights could endanger your life as it increases the likelihood of vehicular accidents, which could happen when a vehicle does not notice and crashes into you.
If you need to ride your bike at night, you need to have at least a front and backlight on your bike. Ideally, fix your headlights to the road a few feet ahead of you. The taillights should also be flashing to increase visibility.
2. Make yourself reflective
It is not enough that your bike is the only one well-lit. You, too, must be reflective. Wearing reflective riding gear could significantly increase your recognizability on the road and decrease the likelihood of unwanted accidents.
There are many stylish reflective motorcycle gear to choose from in the market, rather than just settling for a slim vest and a striped pair of pants. In addition to a reflective helmet, you could pair a reflective windbreaker with a couple of leather pants. Top it off with a stylish belt to seal the deal.
Wear bright colors or white if you don’t have any reflective apparel. Bright colors reflect the light from other automobiles, making you noticeable in the dark. You may even add reflective material to an existing jacket. Reflective tape can help you be more visible to motorists at night without the expense of buying reflective gear.
Especially if you are riding at night for a party, better riding gear choices let you not compromise fashion for your safety.
3. Plan your route
When danger is apparent when cycling at night, the best practice is to choose the route you know best and are confident is the safest. Choose a road that has well-lit paths and street lights. If you are riding in the suburbs, ensure that you are well-acquainted with the course to avoid getting lost.
We also advise that you pick a road with fewer potholes and bumps. Even with headlights, there is still a possibility of you missing these road perils. It is also ideal to choose the shortest route if possible. It is better to get home sooner to lessen the chances of you encountering night dangers.
Enjoy the ride
The night and busy roads offer a lot of potential hazards. But with well-lit lights, appropriate motorcycle riding gear, and the correct mindset, nothing stops you from enjoying that peaceful night ride! Remember to follow these three quick tips to enjoy the ride while safe.
