Ride through summer without a bummer

Whether you're cruising to Alaska on a full-dress hog or leaning into the curves of a country road on a sleek sportbike, two-wheeled touring offers an experience you just can't get from the confines of a car. But without the protection of airbags and a passenger compartment, the risks of injury are greater if you're involved in a single-vehicle crash or collision. Remember: Although touring can make for great memories, you can only savor what you survive. Help keep your ride smooth and free of road rash by taking these safety tips to heart:

Be seen. You and your motorcycle are smaller than other vehicles, which makes you harder to spot. And keep in mind that the drivers around you are expecting cars and pedestrians not two-wheeled vehicles moving at the same speed. Bright clothing and reflective strips are good ways to make your presence known. Stay on the defensive by keeping away from the blind spots of other vehicles, especially trucks.

Give fair warning. On your bike, you're highly maneuverable perhaps too maneuverable. Use your signals to give larger vehicles a clue before you change lanes or take an exit.

Stay ahead of the game. Just because you can stop fast doesn't mean the truck behind you can, too. Consider the other driver's stopping distance when you're ahead of traffic.

Get training. If you're new to riding, attend a rider-training course even if local licensing laws don't require it.

Watch the wind. If the wind can move a panel truck around, it can swat your bike into the next lane with no problem. Pay attention to wind direction and velocity. And as part of your defensive approach to riding, observe how the wind is affecting the vehicles around you.

Wear the right clothing. Start with a helmet (mandatory in many states). Round things out with the boots, gloves and other gear that can come between you and the asphalt if you have to lay your bike down. And definitely wear protective eyewear to shield yourself from flying debris and bugs.

Check your bike before every ride. Improperly inflated or worn tires can make control difficult. A blowout or cable failure at highway speeds can spell disaster. Always remember to check your clutch, throttle, brakes and brake lights, shifter, headlight, signals and oil level before you take to the open road.

Get more info

• American Motorcyclist Association
• Motorcycle Safety Foundation
• U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)