As the price of gas remains over $3 gallon, more people than ever are riding motorcycles.
Motorcycle dealers report that many baby boomers, some who haven’t ridden cycles in years, are now in the market for them.
“Now, with fuel prices rising, we get more customers in who haven’t ridden in a long time, sometimes 20 years,” said Jim Brown of Barnes Motor World of Westminster.
Avid cyclist Ed Kriston, automotive repair specialist of the Towson Office of AAA Mid-Atlantic, headquartered in Wilmington, Del., agrees.
“More and more people are riding motorcycles,” Kriston said. “A lot of us do it because it is cost effective; you can get 40 miles per gallon.”
But Kriston and AAA colleagues Jeffrey Boone and Troy Green said many new or returning cyclists should brush up on some basic maintenance and safety pointers to ensure safe travels. Consider some of their pointers:
» Regularly check tire pressure. Motorcycle tires are very susceptible to damage when tire pressure is low. Heat can quickly change the pressure. Buy an air pressure gauge with a flexible hose (for easy tire access) and check tire pressure weekly.
» When tires are changed, have the brakes inspected. Rear brake pads have a tendency to wear out quickly in some models depending on driving conditions.
» Regular oil changes are critical. Be sure to have yours done on schedule.
» Remember the rules of the road. Maryland law prohibits cycles from traveling between lanes of traffic.
» Buy a properly fitted helmet. Maryland law requires cyclists to wear helmets. It should fit extremely tight on your head and not move from side to side or front to back. Buy a full face helmet for cooler weather and a half helmet for summer.
» Try to ensure auto drivers can see you. Some cyclists prefer loud exhausts so they are noticed. That’s not necessary. However, try to stay visible by avoiding sudden lane changes and wearing a yellow vest or reflective material.
» Consider a motorcycle with an air bag. Honda has just started manufacturing them. Others may soon follow suit.
