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   Wichita, KS | (316) 686-1069

OUR BLOG

8/14/2018
If the summer sun has you sweating while riding your motorcycle, you're not alone. Use the following tips to stay safe on the road this summer.


Summer Riding Tips for Motorcyclists


The summer is the perfect time to head out on vacation, or better yet, on a road trip. If you're an avid motorcycle rider, you may be tempted to back up your saddle bags and hit the open road on your bike. While this is totally doable and can lead to great experiences, you have to be cautious not only because you're more exposed to road dangers, but also because the summer heat can be brutal. To make your summer road trip a success, take these tips into consideration.

Hydration Is Key


As summer temperatures reach their peak, staying hydrated is important no matter what you're doing. If you're out riding your motorcycle under the summer sun, however, this is even more important. Dehydration isn't just bad for your health, it can also increase your risk of getting into an accident. This is because as your body gets dehydrated, you also start to lose your ability to focus and end up quite fatigued. If you know the day will be very hot, be sure to carry plenty of water with you so that you can stay hydrated. Avoid sugary drinks, coffee, and alcohol since these won't help you stay hydrated.

Stop and Rest


Another important thing to keep in mind is that you need to take breaks during your motorcycle trips. Whether you're on a road trip or are just taking a longer than usual ride, pull over and allow your body to take a break from the heat. Even if you want to make it to your destination quickly, it's more important that you get there safely. Taking breaks at rest stops will allow you to hydrate, cool off, and get out of the sun. As you recharge, you can also take a look at your motorcycle and fix any issues that may have come up.

Take Care of Your Motorcycle


While it's super important that you're in good riding condition before heading out on the road, it's also important that you ensure your motorcycle is also ready to take on the demands of the road. Before heading out, ;inspect your bike's different systems, tires, and fluids. Some of the fluids you should focus your attention on include the brake fluid, coolant, and motor oil. These should be in good condition and present at the proper levels.

If your oil looks like it's ready for a change, give it a ;synthetic oil ;change in Wichita. ;For the best results, use quality products like ;AMSOIL's20W-50 Synthetic V-Twin Motorcycle Oil. Get more product recommendations like this one by ;contacting ;Hartmans Inc ;at ;(316) 686-1069.

Wear the Proper Gear


The summer heat may tempt you to lose all your gear and head out in shorts and a tank top, but this is the worst thing you can do. ;Your regular riding gear may feel a bit uncomfortable under the sun, especially if you tend to sweat, but keeping your body covered is the best thing you can do. Not only will you be better protected against road dangers, you will also be less affected by the heat and sunburns. In fact, if you get quite sweaty, your riding gear will keep this sweat trapped, helping you stay cooler than if it were to evaporate. As always, wear long sleeves, long pants, gloves, boots, and a helmet. If your riding gear is too uncomfortable, look for warm weather gear that is just as protective but more breathable.

Be a Smart Rider


Staying safe on the road should be your top priority, and luckily this isn't too hard. To stay safe, be a smart rider and know your limits. If you're tired or if you're feeling too warm, don't try to ride through it. Listen to your body and the signals it's sending you. It's also important that you pay attention to road conditions and avoid riding through any unsafe areas. Pay attention to the weather and leave your motorcycle at home if you're expecting outrageously hot temperatures or summer storms that can lead to ;slick roads. Finally, take care of your motorcycle and carry emergency supplies no matter how short of long of a ride you're going on.

Get a Synthetic ;Oil ;Change in ;Wichita


To ensure your motorcycle stays at its best this summer, give it a ;synthetic oil ;change ;in Wichita. ;For help finding the best ;AMSOIL Oil ;products for your motorcycle, ;contact ;Hartmans Inc ;at ;(316) 686-1069. ;You can browse all of their products from the comfort of your home by visiting ;their ;online store.