Pay active attention to others
The new biking season again promises plenty of fun with tours to attractive sights and meets with other bike enthusiasts, many of whom see this as the epitome of freedom. Following the winter break, however, many bikers are not as familiar with their vehicles as they were at the end of the previous season. Bikes and cars are completely different when it comes to balance, coordination, acceleration, and speed. That is why it makes sense to do a few practice runs at the start of the season. Off-road training sites are the ideal location to practice braking and riding slaloms and curves, regaining a feeling for the bike before heading for the open road.
At the start of the season, bikers should apply the same procedure as every year. Car drivers and bikers need to get used to each other again.
The priority for both is to think when they’re on the road and pay active attention to others
says Achim Kuppinger, a DEKRA motorcycle expert. Approaching junctions and overtaking are particularly hazardous situations. Bikers need to be careful when it comes to the grip on road surfaces, which may have changed since the previous fall. In spring, the risk of skidding is increased by gravel on the road, frost damage, moisture, or just poor road conditions.
It can still get quite cold in spring and the layering principle is a proven defense for bikers – several layers of clothing that can be put on or removed as needed. “If a rider doesn’t feel comfortable on their motorbike, this may affect their concentration,” says Kuppinger. The suitability of equipment – leathers, protectors, helmet, visor, boots, and rain protection – should always be checked before the first outing.
Of course, the bike itself also deserves a thorough check covering everything from the engine to accessories.