aware of bikes and to not text, eat, apply makeup, play with
their phones-- or anything else that takes their eyes off the
road. We have to be more aware or how we ride as well. We
need to know how to avoid how to avoid accidents and make
it to our destinations.
The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT)
2016 campaign is focusing on better awareness of car and
truck drivers. They want drivers to go beyond the “look twice”
message. Take Action Against Distraction, like the Look
Twice campaign, is aimed to increase the consciousness of
everyone that we all need to ride and drive responsibly.
TRAFFIC LANES
To “optimize your lane position” is a catch phrase, but
essential when riding on a multi-lane highway. Think of
the lane as being divided into three sections, or smaller
lanes. The far left, or blocking lane, is generally the best for
overall visibility and maneuverability to avoid other vehicles.
The center can be less safe if there is debris, oil or other
compounds on the road. However, that center area is often
the smoothest on wide open roads and highways. Using the
far right can make you more visible to oncoming cars entering
the road. Keep in mind that every ride is different and things
can change quickly. Being prepared and having experience
and training is your best safeguard.
standards. A SNELL rating on a helmet means that the
helmet has tested to a higher impact standard than the
DOT standard but both are good safety standards. Look
for the endorsement decal from either SNELL or DOT on
new helmets – stay away from used helmets, and helmets
without DOT or SNELL certifications and any helmet labeled
“novelty” since those helmets are not made to any standard
of safety at all.
STATISTICS SUCK
None of us wants to be a statistic, but too many riders end
up as one. During 2014 seventy-nine percent of the fatalities
of motorcycle riders involved only the motorcycle and no
other vehicle. We are our own worst enemies sometimes–
not the cage drivers, not the texting teenagers or otherwise
distracted drivers. Those statistics also show that many riders
set themselves up by riding impaired or under the influence.
Again during 2014, sixty-nine percent of fatalities were
determined to have the rider to be “at fault” and whether you
want to hear it or not, sixty-three percent of those fatalities
were not wearing a helmet.
LEATHER NOT LACE
While wearing black is certainly the coolest look, consider
wearing a reflective patch or a bright color to increase your
visibility to drivers. Always ride with your gear, especially
good boots - never with flip flops, unless you want to lose
that little toe! Dress for the ride, but prepare for an accident.
Anyone who has gotten a scuff on their leather knows that it
is better to have the leathers hit the pavement than the skin.
Levi’s will shred once you hit the pavement, and the next
layer is your skin so chaps or Kevlar jeans can protect you.
Quality gloves are another must, for adequate protection.
“Just in case” pretty much sums up how all ride preparation
can be described. Sure, many times you won’t need that
protective gear but there may very well come a day that you
do need it. Keep an eye on quality for your gear. The quality
of that gear is important if it protective gear. Sometimes
spending just a few dollars more on those boots, jackets,
chaps, protective pants and helmets can sometimes make a
big difference in the quality.
CRANIUM CANDY
GROUP FORMATION
Riding in a group can be fun, but also takes practice. Use
hand signals to communicate with your group, to warn of road
hazards, upcoming stops, or to signal the need to ride single
file while passing an obstacle. Stay in a zig-zag formation,
giving each rider space to react if needed. Use one lane for
your group, rather than take over several on the road, so cars
can safely pass you. If you see a car that indicates they want
to pass, open a gap and let them pass. Stay with your group
– don’t leave everyone guessing as to where you are headed
or why you are racing a mile ahead of everyone. But don’t be
afraid to separate if the group is going too fast for your skills
or if it would not be safe for you to follow. Ride within your
skillset, not in competition with other riders.
Helmets are a personal choice, and each year the styles
get better, they provide better coverage and better protection
and more comfort. It is essential to feel safe when you ride
and a good helmet can help you feel more comfortable. Shop
around and choose the best helmet for you. Choose a helmet
for its protection and for proper fit and comfort. The best fit
holds tight to your cheeks, jaw, and holds firm to your head.
Currently there are certifications by Snell Memorial
Foundation (SNELL) and by the Department of Transportation
(DOT) that indicate a helmet is designed for safety. Both
ratings verify helmets through vigorous testing and high
www.thunderroadscolorado.com
May 2016
NO-BRAINERS
•
Do not tailgate. Be aware of
your cushion of space, and how
fast you (don’t) stop. Since car
drivers usually can not accurately
gauge or guess how fast a
motorcycle is going, obey the
speed limit. Many accidents are
caused by speeding bikes that a car driver inaccurately
judges to be going slower, pulling out in front of the
bike and well, you know the rest. Make eye contact
with drivers when possible, to verify they see you.
continued...
Thunder Roads Magazine® Colorado 11