There is nothing quite like the feeling of riding your bike on the open road on a beautiful warm day. Whether you're an experienced rider, or new to the motorcycle scene here are some easy tips that will keep you and your bike safe & happy this summer.
1. Stop your bike from falling over
We've all seen it happen - a kickstand isn't on stable ground and the next thing you know BOOM! Your bike has fallen over. It's so easy to keep this from happening - just create a barrier.
There are products you can buy for this purpose, but to be honest you can use just about anything to give the stand a little more stability. Crushed pop can, credit card, hotel key, hockey puck - take your pick.
2. Baby wipes ... for everything
I know what you're thinking - weird piece of advice. But trust me, it's a good tip!
Baby wipes can clean literally anything. As any experienced rider knows, it is extremely important to keep your bike AND your riding gear in good condition.
Baby wipes are a perfect solution to clean your bike in a pinch, and they are also great for cleaning your leathers. They'll even keep the hide moisturized and stop them from cracking.
3. Invest in a bungee net
You can strap anything to your bike with a bungee net. Seriously - anything. A bungee net is the cheapest, easiest and safest solution to carrying something on your bike. Doesn't matter the shape or size, and they usually cost under $20.
Why don't you have one yet?
4. Prevent water on your visor with a potato
Potatoes are starchy. Water doesn't like starch. Cut a potato, rub the inside over your visor and you won't have to worry about water droplets obscuring your vision ever again.
Added bonus - no chemicals to strip away any anti-fog or anti-scratch coating.
5. Duct tape visor
Possibly the oldest trick in the book, but it's still worth a mention here.
Put a strip of tape across the top of your helmet's visor to block the sun. There is nothing worse (or more potentially dangerous) than blinding late evening sun directly in your eyes.
6. Get the fog out of here
No anti-fog solution on hand? Here's a temporary fix: Spit on the inside of your visor and buff it with a microfiber cloth. The enzymes in your saliva can help prevent fogging for a short time. (Just be sure to clean the visor thoroughly afterward!)
Alternatively, a bar of soap can work wonders. Rub a thin layer on the visor's inner surface and buff it with a microfiber cloth for a temporary shield against fog.
7. Navigation in a pinch
While GPS navigation is a lifesaver, signal reception can be spotty in remote areas.
Consider taking a screenshot of your intended route before your ride. This way, even without a signal, you'll have a basic map to guide you until you reach a stronger reception zone.
8. Paintbrushes for tight spaces
A small paintbrush is great for getting into those hard-to-reach nooks and crannies on your bike. Keep a couple with your cleaning tools and use them to brush away dust and grime to keep your bike looking new!
9. Above all else, stay sage and have fun
OK - this SHOULD go without saying, but the most important thing you can do on your motorcycle this summer is stay safe. Follow the rules of the road, be visible, be aware of your surroundings and wear proper gear.
Remember that the best motorcycle hacks are often the ones that make your rides safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable. Whether it's a clever solution for keeping your bike upright or tips for keeping your motorcycle clean, these little tricks can go a long way.
So next time you're getting ready to hit the road, put these tips to the test and see how they can elevate your next motorcycle adventure. Most importantly, ride safe and have fun!
Enjoy the ride!
