Road Hazards to Notice While Riding a Motorcycle

With the power of a motorcycle comes the responsibility of safely riding it! Road conditions and hazards can be a lot more serious when you’re on a motorcycle, so it’s important for riders to be hyper-aware of their surroundings. If you switch between riding your bike and driving a car, this article will help remind you of the hazards on the road you need to watch for!

Ruts in the Asphalt

Road ruts, or impressions or indents formed over time, can alter the intended shape of the asphalt. Areas with heavy traffic commonly have ruts and you’ll notice they form right where commuter vehicle tires travel again and again. 

Motorcycle tires are centered, so coming in contact with one of these ruts can result in a poor reaction from your bike. Hitting a road rut can result in instability that can lead to less control of your bike. It’s best to avoid ruts, but you should be prepared for the wobble and drag they can cause!

Potholes

No matter what you drive, potholes are a common enemy. They can cause serious damage to tires and suspension systems, especially when you’re operating on two wheels! 

Potholes can be particularly concerning for motorcyclists because they can catch a tire and force it sideways or cause significant damage to a wheel. Certain weather conditions can cause potholes to expand or hide them from view, so pay extra attention if you are traveling after rain or snow. 

Road Construction

Another less than ideal situation for any motorist is road construction. It’s infamous for slowing you down and adding stress to your commute. However, road work can be even more frustrating for riders because it often means maneuvering steel plates, rough road conditions, and long lines of traffic. 

It’s important to be confident in these scenarios and have a good ability to stop and go on your motorcycle. Give yourself plenty of space between the vehicle ahead of you and if you need to pass over plates or uneven asphalt, reduce your speed.

Slow-Moving Vehicles

Slow-moving vehicles can be an obstacle for motorcyclists as well. Long lines of traffic can cause drivers to become impatient and pass recklessly. If you see farm equipment or a broken-down automobile, reduce your speed and pay extra attention to drivers around you; they may be more focused on the situation than you! Try to make yourself visible and use your best judgment to safely navigate past the slow-moving vehicle or patiently wait for it to turn.

Riding a motorcycle can be great fun, but it’s important to understand different road hazards you could encounter. Our team at Dutchess Recreational Vehicles is here to help you have the best ownership experience possible! Visit us in Poughkeepsie, NY, where we proudly serve Peekskill, NY, and Danbury, CT.