The motorcycle riding season is approaching. For motorcyclists, this is the time to do preventive maintenance on your bike, and get your riding skills up to par after the winter lay off.
Riders are often the victims of unpredictable and irresponsible motorists
Being visible, ensuring that your bike is in top mechanical condition, and, most importantly, adjusting your speed for road and traffic conditions, are essential survival skills.
A full tune-up and service is a good place to start. Check your tires, brakes and lights, and make adjustments that will make your bike more comfortable and manageable.
Inspect your riding gear and replace scratched face shields and tattered rain suits. Get yourself into shape and relearn the skills you may have lost during the break by practicing in a parking lot.
Lastly, ensure that you wear appropriate protective clothing when operating a motorcycle. This includes full-fingered gloves, a long-sleeved shirt or jacket, full-length trousers and over-the-ankle footwear.
High-visibility garments should be worn for day travel, and reflective clothing for night travel. At the very least, riders should wear a reflective vest or belt.
For more information, call the U.S. Army Garrison Safety Office at 431-3134/civ. 07031-15-3134.
