For many people, riding a motorcycle isn’t just a way to get from one place to another. It’s a way of life. Those that fall into this category tend to enjoy riding no matter what time of the year it is or which surprises the weather happens to hold in store for them along the way. Of course, being comfortable makes the ride that much more pleasant. There are many steps you can take to make your rides more comfortable and more enjoyable.
Find the Right Bike
When it comes to getting comfortable on your motorcycle, one of the most important things you can do is find the right bike. Motorcycles aren’t one-size-fits-all items. Just like people, they come in numerous shapes and sizes. Finding one that fits you well can make a world of difference.
Be sure to choose a bike that’s low enough for you to place both feet firmly on the ground. You should be able to reach the handlebars without having to lean forward, stretch your arms too far, or bend them too much.
Your elbows should be just slightly bent with your hands on the grips. When riding, you need to be able to keep your knees against the fuel tank and bent at roughly a 90-degree angle.
Watch Your Riding Stance
While you’re on the road, be mindful of your riding stance. Having a bike that’s the right size for you will naturally keep you in a more comfortable riding position, but many people tense up or slouch when they’re riding. Both can make you uncomfortable and leave you feeling worse for wear after your trip. Try to keep your back straight but relaxed. Don’t let your shoulders or arms tense up, and try to keep your hands relaxed when you’re not working the clutch, throttle, and front brakes. Let your feet and ankles rest when you’re not changing gears or applying the rear brakes.
Wear the Right Gear
Another way to stay comfortable while riding is to wear the right gear. Helmets provide much-needed protection, but they can be heavy and bulky. That’s especially true of full-face and three-quarter helmets. You can lose a great deal of that bulk by opting for a half helmet. It won’t provide quite as much coverage, but it’ll be a lot more comfortable. At the same time, some half helmets are lighter and more comfortable than others. Find one that fits you well and comfortably, and be sure it’s DOT-approved.
Find a nice pair of boots that to help keep your feet comfortable without sacrificing protection. Shield your eyes from the sun and flying debris with the right sunglasses, and choose a good pair of riding gloves to cushion your hands. All those steps will help make your rides not only more enjoyable but also safer.
Stop for Breaks
Finally, when you’re going on long rides, be sure to stop for breaks here and there. It’ll give you a chance to stretch your legs and rest your arms and back. It may take you a little longer to reach your destination if you stop often, but it’s well worth the extra time. After all, it’s about the ride, not the destination.
Enjoying Your Motorcycle Rides
If you’re like many riders, you enjoy riding no matter which minor problems you encounter along the way. Still, being comfortable can make those rides more fun. Remember the tips mentioned here to help make all your rides more comfortable and enjoyable.
