Riding Your Motorcycle at Night
Whether you plan on traveling the country or just commuting across town, chances are you will be riding your motorcycle after dark on occasion. Nothing quite compares to cruising down the highway under a twinkling starscape, or zooming past the city lights with the buzz of nightlife all around you.
But before you hit the road, it’s important to understand the unique safety hazards that arise after sundown. Read on for a guide to safely riding your motorcycle at night.
Are you doing a little research before purchasing your first motorcycle? Learning about motorcycle safety is a great place to start. When you’re ready to check out some Harley-Davidson® models, head to Wisconsin Harley-Davidson in Oconomowoc, WI.
Know the Risks
Needless to say, decreased visibility is the most dangerous thing about night riding. Obstacles such as potholes or loose gravel can be hazardous any time of day, and you may not be able to spot them easily at night. Ride defensively to compensate, and always be prepared for the unexpected.
When riding in rural areas after dark, you need to watch out for another kind of obstacle: animals! More animals come out at night than during the day, and of course it’s going to be more difficult to see them. Stay alert for the possibility of animals crossing the road ahead. You can pretty much avoid this hazard altogether by sticking to well-lit freeways at night.
Urban and rural areas alike see a dramatic increase in drunk drivers after dark, and there’s an even sharper increase on weekends and holidays. Look out for erratic driving behavior, such as weaving from side to side. Give any suspected drunk drivers a wide berth, taking detours when possible to avoid them.
Light Your Way
Most motorcycles come standard with halogen lights, but LED lights are an easy and affordable upgrade that is going to make a huge difference to your night riding experience. LED lights are not only brighter than halogen, they also last longer and consume less energy, making them more economical in the long run.
Another upgrade to consider is a brake light flasher. A more eye-catching alternative to the standard brake light, the brake light flasher blinks several times before emitting a solid beam of light. This helps draw the attention of other motorists and makes your presence known.
Dress for Success
Visibility is always key to staying safe on your motorcycle, and it’s especially important when riding at night. The traditional biker jacket may look stylish during the day, but black leather becomes a liability after dark. Make a bolder fashion statement with brightly colored clothing in neon or fluorescent shades, or throw on a high-visibility safety vest like those worn by road workers.
Look for motorcycle gear designed for high visibility, or enhance your gear with retro-reflective tape. Retro-reflective tape can be added to your helmet, your bike, your saddlebags, and your wheel rims.
Adapt and Conquer
Riding your bike after dark requires a different strategy than daytime riding. Increase the amount of space you give to other motorists when riding at night, and allow more time for braking and changing lanes. Keep your gaze on the far right edge of your lane to avoid being blinded by oncoming headlights, and always be on the lookout for obstacles.
Follow these precautions and you can ride into the night with confidence! Wisconsin Harley-Davidson carries all of the safety gear you need for your night riding adventures, along with a wide selection of new and used Harley-Davidson® motorcycles. We proudly serve the greater Milwaukee area from our dealership in Oconomowoc, WI.