There are few things more exciting than riding a motorcycle down the road, wind whipping through your hair and nothing but open space ahead. But that doesn't mean that safety can be left behind. Motorcycles are dangerous beasts, and observing some safety tips can help keep you alive. Safety on a Harley Davidson trike is no different.
Riding a trike does give you a small leg up in the safety category. Trikes are three-wheeled creatures, which makes them automatically more stable than two-wheelers. This added stability translates into a lesser risk of falling onto its side, which in turn means less chance of a rider being trapped under it or slid into danger. Trikes don't require people to hold them up when stopped, which can reduce the risk to those who are not physically strong enough to have good control of the bike in that situation.
Trikes come as pre-made machines bought from dealers, or as kits that turn your existing motorcycle into a trike. Some people have also made their own trikes. Be careful if you choose to do it yourself, either with or without a kit, that everything is in order for a safe ride. Generally, it's better to choose a licensed and experienced mechanic to do it for you. Choose a reputable dealership or mechanic to put it on for you.
In order to have the safest ride possible, you need to give yourself some time and low-speed practice in how riding a trike is different from a bike. Trikes do not need you to straddle them at stops, but you will need to remember to make sure they are in park before leaving them parked, or they could run away. Steering a trike is different, too, and you'll need to put in some practice to make sure that you can steer safely, without swerving, before you take on any difficult roads.
How safe your particular choice of a trike is, is something to consider. Certain models are safer than others, just like in cars and motorcycles, and knowing ahead of time what you're getting can ensure you choose the safest option. The small amount of time it takes to do this research is worth taking.
Maintenance is a major safety factor in any automobile or bike. Keeping the tire pressure up, the engine serviced and the belts up to date will help to prevent accidents caused by suddenly breaking parts. Check that your mirrors are in the right positions before riding, and try not to miss a service appointment date.
Don't wear an old helmet. Newer helmets are safer because the materials inside them are better at keeping you shielded from impact. Never wear a helmet, or any other safety gear, that's been in an accident. Safety gear for riders is meant to absorb only one impact, and will not be as effective a second time.
The proper clothing can help keep you safe when riding a motorcycle trike, too. Leathers are popular because they can protect your body from road rash if you come off during an accident. Road rash can be serious if it covers large parts of your body, as well as painful. Make safety on a Harley Davidson trike non-negotiable, and you won't regret it.
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Always wear an appropriate
motorcycle helmet every time you go anywhere on your
Harley trike, whether you are on an organized Harley tour or just heading to the local supermarket. Remember that safety is your duty.
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