Road Hazards To Watch For On Your Motorcycle

Safely operating a motorcycle requires a certain level of skill, and the unfortunate truth is that there are a number of road conditions that can make things harder for you. Hitting the wrong road hazard at the wrong time can result in some serious injuries. That’s why the safety experts at Riverside County Indian Motorcycle have created this road hazard guide.

Road Ruts

Road ruts are one of the more common road hazards you’ll encounter while out riding. Frequent, heavy traffic makes its mark on the road, eventually compressing it into a distinct indentation. If you’re ever seen a series of two to four ruts running down the road, you’ve encountered road ruts. 

Unlike the tires found on cars and trucks, a motorcycle’s tires are centered. If your bike hits one of these ruts, it’s going to cause problems. Trying to center your tires in one of the ruts isn’t a good idea either, as the uneven shape will cause you to wobble. Your safest best bet is to stay aware of where the ruts are and avoid them whenever possible. 

Potholes

Potholes are a pain for any motorist that encounters them, but they’re especially annoying for anyone riding a two-wheeled vehicle. In some cases, the pothole might “grab” your wheel and cause it to turn sideways. In other cases, the edge can cause your wheel rim to bend or fracture. Potholes can form surprisingly quickly, especially under very wet conditions. That’s why you need to be extra careful if it has just rained or snowed. Puddles and piles of snow can hide newly formed pot holes. 

Road Work

Oftentimes, road workers place steel plates to cover up the holes that they make. The bump caused by riding over one of these plates in a motorcycle is bad enough, but these plates are incredibly slippery when wet. If you see road work and it is raining or has recently rained, try to avoid the steel plate. If that’s not possible, pass over it in as straight a line as you can, and at a reduced speed. Never attempt to turn while on a steel plate if possible.

Shop new and pre-owned motorcycles at Riverside County Indian Motorcycle. We also have rentals, financing, and servicing. Our dealership in Corona, California offers convenient access to communities like Anaheim and Huntington Beach, California.