Construction Safety for Motorcycles
So, you’re out enjoying your freshly washed motorcycle when suddenly you spot a sign. “Motorcycles Use Caution”. Obviously as a rider, you already use caution so what does this really mean? These signs appear just before a construction site where motorcycle riders face many threats such as loose gravel and uneven roadways. The following tips can ensure that you will be able to navigate through construction sites safely and keep the rubber side down… even though you may have to wash the bike again.
First things first, when approaching a construction site your first instinct should be to slow down. Speed will not be your friend when so many potential dangers lurk ahead. Construction sites give good notice via road signs so when you see these signs, it is time to slow down.
Secondly, before you make it to the construction site, make sure that you have space around you. As we already discussed there could be multiple threats that lie ahead. To ensure that you can react to these threats, make sure you are giving vehicles in front of you good lead time, there is space behind you, and that any other riders with you are not crowding too close together. Pick a spot in the middle of the travel lane to be sure you have space to maneuver.
Once you reach the construction site, make sure you are riding in a clear lane. The sides of the road are dangerous to bikers in general, but in a construction site the chances of loose gravel buildup are higher. If the road is being prepared for pavement, there may be grooved or gravel surfaces where you didn’t expect. Additionally, there could be lanes of uneven height, width, or traction if sections of the road are farther along the construction process than others. Look ahead and choose the path that is most clear.
So we’ve covered the basics, but what happens when threats are unavoidable? If you have no choice but to hit that pothole, just make sure you are in control. Use both hands on the handlebars and keep your body loose. Staying too rigid will make it hard for your body to absorb the impact and could lead to unwanted inputs such as braking or accelerating too hard. Lifting your body off the seat is also a tactic used with large bumps. To avoid having a high center of gravity simply stand on the pegs and lift your body slightly so whatever is on the road is less likely to drastically impact your ride.
The unwanted inputs are next on the list. When you have any doubts about how your bike will react to the road conditions, use minor inputs. Accelerate slowly, use light braking and avoid sharp steering. Any one of these could easily lead to a lack of traction and can be disastrous.
Next you should always be prepared to stop. Many construction sites include flaggers who are controlling traffic. Watch for these workers and be prepared ahead of time if they decide to stop the flow of traffic. It may take longer to stop depending on the road conditions, so this ties back to having enough space around you.
Wet paint is another hazard for riders. Its slick and could easily lead to a fall. Luckily these road markings are typically out of the traffic’s way, but it is smart to always be on the lookout for the potential of having to deal with riding over any freshly painted lines.
Lastly, make sure you are wearing proper gear. Wearing gear is crucial to riding through these sites. With all the potential dangers, you want to be prepared in the case that you do lay the bike down. A helmet, gloves, jacket, and boots are ideal for riding anywhere, but especially where danger is increased. High visibility gear is also recommended.
Riding through construction sites is dangerous, but it doesn’t have to be a gamble. By staying mindful and aware you can ensure your own safety.
Stay sharp, ride smart, and be safe out there.