There is a risk every time you're out on the road. Protect yourself from these common motorcycle crashes by being a proactive driver.








Left Hand Turns Collisions
In these cases, the opposite driver makes a left hand turn at an intersection in front of an oncoming motorcyclist. The driver may not see the biker, or they misjudge the speed and distance at which the biker is coming toward them.

Tips:

• Slow down at intersections.
• Anticipate the direction and speed of oncoming drivers.
• Watch for turn signals. Be ready to slow down or maneuver if a car pulls in front of you.

Head on Collisions
A head on collision is one of the most dangerous situations for a biker. Keep an eye on oncoming traffic, especially as it gets dark.
Tips:

• The National Safety Council stands by the four R's:
  1. Read the road
  2. Drive to the right
  3. Reduce your speed
  4. Ride off the road
• If an oncoming driver enters your lane, direct yourself toward the path of least resistance.

Lane Changing Collisions
The small structure of a motorcycle puts it at a higher risk of not being seen, especially on a highway dominated by semi-trucks. Proactive driving will reduce the risk of being involved in a lane changing collision. If you can't see the mirror or face of the driver, you are in their blind spot.

Tips:

• Never ride in a blind spot.
• Speed up or slow down to create space between yourself and other drivers.
• Anticipate lane changes. Turn signals, mirror checks and turning wheels are signs that a driver is planning to switch lanes.

Rear End Collisions
There are situations when a biker is caught off guard and collides with a vehicle in front of them. Stay vigilant on the road. Traffic conditions can change at any time.
Tips:

• Pay attention to traffic in front of you.
• Watch for brake lights.
• Keep a large distance between you and other vehicles to give yourself time to brake.

Corner Accidents
Be cautious when coming up on a corner. Debris on the road can cause your front tire to slip and lay down your bike. Turns can often be misleading, appearing wider than they really are. Be aware of your skill level and never take on a ride that you don't feel comfortable with.
Tips:

• Assess road conditions and adjust your speed accordingly.
• Be cautious after large storms. Leaves or branches may have fallen, creating hazards around the corner.
• Take turns wide and slow.
• Trust your bike and lean into your turns.
• Stay calm and keep your eyes directed in front of you.

Foremost wants you to be safe! Though some accidents can't be prevented, it is important to do everything you can to keep yourself out of harm's way while you're on the road. Always be aware of your surroundings, and remember these tips when you ride!
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Whether you're a novice or a skilled motorcycle operator, there are going to be times when hazards on the road test your handling abilities. The best defense you have is the ability to react quickly and calmly to the hazards that appear in your path. Use our motorcycle riding safety tips below.

Before you go out riding, watch your local weather forecast. If there is a possibility of rain, snow, strong winds or other potentially dangerous weather on the way, you may want to leave your motorcycle parked where it is and choose a more appropriate method of transportation. But you can't always predict the weather, and there is always the possibility you could get caught in dangerous driving conditions.

Depending on the specific hazard or road conditions, there are some things you can do - and can practice beforehand - to ensure that you know how to react when these conditions arise. Depending on whether you're riding in slick conditions like rain, snow or wet leaves or trying to avoid hazards in the road such as potholes, debris or uneven pavement, here are a few motorcycle riding safety tips that could help you react in ways that will, keep you and your bike safe.

When Surfaces are Slick
There are several conditions that could cause a riding surface to become slippery and require you to react quickly. Some of these elements are liquids (such as oil spots) on the road, rain, wet leaves, sand, gravel, and snow and ice. Regardless of the cause of the slippery surface, here are some tips that might help you maneuver through these less-than-ideal conditions:

• Reduce your speed - A slippery surface will result in a longer stopping time. Slow down and pay close attention to changes in the driving surface.
• Use both brakes - Your front brake is responsible for three-quarters of your braking ability. Apply the front brake slowly and consistently without locking the wheel. Apply the rear brake in the same manner. Try not to brake mid-corner and remember the risk of sliding increases with acceleration.
• Avoid sudden moves - On a slippery surface, sudden movements will be exaggerated and could cause you to lose balance. Gradual, deliberate movements will help keep the bike steady and help you avoid skidding.
• Try to avoid the slickest areas - The center of the lane and intersections are where oil and other slippery substances tend to build up. To avoid these areas, ride where you're most likely to be seen AND avoid the hazard. Try to avoid the sides of the road where dirt, gravel and snow collect and cause low-traction conditions.

When Strong Winds Blow
Strong winds can catch you off-guard and throw you off balance when you're on a motorcycle ride. Opposed to other weather hazards, you can't see it coming. Be aware of weather conditions before you ride and take extra precautions when winds are extreme. Look ahead on the path you're riding and try to determine where the wind is going to catch you so you can plan for it. Some areas to watch out for include bridges, gaps between buildings and trees, open roads, coastal areas and gusts as large trucks pass. Try and figure out which way the wind is going to blow you and then do the following:

• Ride on the side of the lane that gives you the most room to maneuver.
• Keep your distance from other cars as well as the side and centerline of the road.
• Practice good posture. A good grip on the handle bars, a firm planting of your feet on the pegs and keeping your arms and shoulders flexible will help you maintain control and balance.
• Steer into the wind as much as possible. In addition, it's extremely important in windy conditions to be aware of debris such as branches that have blown into your path.

When Debris or Hazards Appear in Your Path
There are many times that hazards such as potholes, branches or items in the road might appear seemingly out of nowhere. It is very important that you practice avoiding hazards, and are able to react quickly and calmly when they do appear.

Often, you will need to make a quick turn to avoid the object or hazard. To do this, you should lean quickly in the direction you want to turn and press on the inside of the hand grip on the same side. This will cause the front wheel to move slightly in the opposite direction while still allowing the bike to move straight ahead to avoid the object without losing balance or throwing the bike too far off course.
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If you have to ride over an object, it is important that you:

• Hold onto the hand grips tightly.
• Keep a straight course.
• Rise up slightly on the foot pegs to absorb the shock.

Once you have driven over an object or hazard in the road, it's a good idea to pull over and inspect your bike and tires for any damage.
The same advice holds true when dealing with uneven surfaces like potholes, broken pavement or railroad tracks:

• Slow down.
• Hold onto the hand grips tightly.
• Keep a straight course.
• Rise up slightly on the foot pegs to absorb the shock.
• Try to cross the uneven surface at an angle.

SEE
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation has developed this proactive defense-driving tool as an easy way to recall what steps you should take if a hazard crosses your path while you're riding your motorcycle. Keep “SEE” in mind when you're out riding as a good first step in deciding what you need to do.

S - Search around you for potential hazards. Look ahead, to the sides, in your mirrors and even over your shoulder.
E - Evaluate any possible hazards or dangers such as an oncoming car making a left turn, a driver speeding up behind you or a car waiting to pull onto the road.
E - Execute the action needed to avoid the hazard such as braking or turning.

If you take the steps to identify and react quickly and calmly to the hazards that you could face on the road, you are in a much better position to come out of a potentially dangerous situation unscathed. Nothing can take the place of practice when you're riding a motorcycle, so it's a good idea to spend some time trying to avoid obstacles or potential hazards in a safe environment. Take a Motorcycle Safety Course to prepare yourself for what you could face.

Motorcycle Insurance
In addition to doing what you can to protect your motorcycle and yourself from potential hazards out on the road, it's important that you have the right motorcycle insurance. You need an insurance policy that offers the coverages that are important to your specific bike and lifestyle. Take a look at our coverage options on our motorcycle insurance page, or get a quote.
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Important things to look for when choosing a specialized motorcycle insurance policy:

• Safety Apparel Coverage to protect your investment in helmets, leathers, gloves and any other clothing designed to minimize injury in the event of an accident.
• Optional Equipment Coverage for chroming, custom painting, side cars or anything else that was not included as standard by the manufacturer.
• Optional Towing and Roadside Assistance in case your bikes breaks down and can't be ridden when you're away from home because you run out of gas, get a flat, or have other mechanical issues.
• Optional Replacement Cost Coverage on bikes purchased new and insured within 30 days.
• Flexible payment plans so you can choose the plan that best fits your budget.
• Deductible and coverage limit options.
• Premium discounts.

According to National Insurance Crime Bureau statistics, motor vehicle thefts are on the rise, and among the vehicles being targeted are motorcycles. It's one thing to have your property stolen, but if it is something you love and have become attached to, that is a different story altogether. And only 25% to 30% of motorcycles are recovered after theft. Read below to learn how to prevent motorcycle theft.

Thieves steal motorcycles to resell the whole bike or to strip it down and sell the parts. The fact that motorcycles are small and relatively easy to move makes them particularly vulnerable to theft. Smart thieves will find a way to steal your bike if they really want it, but there are things you can do to protect your investment and make your motorcycle less appealing to a thief. You can make it bothersome for them to try to steal it.

There are several relatively simple and inexpensive ways to help prevent motorcycle theft. One of these methods alone might not be enough to deter a determined thief, but using more than one – or better yet, several – of these methods just might make the difference in whether a thief stops at your house or keeps going.

Keep your bike out of sight
The best bet is to keep your motorcycle in a locked garage. For some people, this might not be an option. If you have to keep your bike parked outside, start by keeping it in a well-lit area and out of direct view from the street. It should be covered with a plain cover that is free of logos or brand names. If the thief can't tell by the cover what type of motorcycle is underneath, they may be more inclined to pass it over. In addition, you should keep the cover locked to the bike with a cable lock. However, this won't prevent a thief from picking up the whole bike and taking it, cover and all. That's why it is important to use this in conjunction with other security measures.

Lock your bike to a stationary object
Even if you have your bike in a locked garage when not in use, it is a good idea to also have it locked to something immovable. One method would be to cement a steel eye to the floor to put a chain or cable through. When using a chain or cable lock, be sure to loop it through the frame or another stable part of the bike. When you're out riding and leave your bike parked outside, always use your steering lock – this is your first step of defense. In addition, you should use two or more locks of different types. If possible, park your bike where you can see it and check on it periodically.

Make good lock choices
When choosing locks, it's not a good idea to spare expense. Choose good locks. Types of locks include serpentine link locks, u-locks and chains. Record key numbers and then file them off the locks if they are stamped on them. Locks attached to your bike should not touch the ground. If a lock is lying on the ground, it is easier for a thief to use a hard item to pound the lock until it breaks. Even if you keep your motorcycle in a locked garage, it's always a good idea to look around to make sure you're not providing a thief with the tools to dismantle your locks. There are usually a lot of tools in a garage and with time and determination, a thief will be able to remove the locks from your bike.

Other devices
There are several new mechanical devices that can help ensure you'll find your bike where you left it. Many dealers are now selling motorcycles with alarms as a standard feature, as well as similar anti-theft devices. An alarm alone is not an effective deterrent, but in combination with other methods, a wailing alarm is liable to make a thief think twice. Even if your motorcycle isn't equipped with an alarm, you can get stickers that say that there is an alarm installed and put them on your bike. You can also purchase anti-prying devices, pick-resistant mechanisms or you can install one or more kill switches to make the motorcycle impossible to start.

Common sense
The best way to protect your motorcycle from theft is to use common sense. Don't leave the keys in the ignition or anywhere within close proximity to the bike. Make sure that you choose the safest places possible to park or store your bike. And don't lock your bike down to something that can easily be moved or broken and assume it's still going to be there when you come back.

Why have motorcycle insurance?
In addition to being confident that you are doing what you can to prevent motorcycle theft, it's important that you have the right insurance. You need a motorcycle insurance policy that offers the coverages that are important to your specific bike and lifestyle.
Important things to look for when choosing a specialized motorcycle insurance policy:

• Safety Apparel Coverage to protect your investment in helmets, leathers, gloves and any other clothing designed to minimize injury in the event of an accident.
• Optional Equipment Coverage for chroming, custom painting, side cars or anything else that was not included as standard by the manufacturer.
• Optional Towing and Roadside Assistance in case your bike breaks down and can't be ridden when you're away from home or you run out of gas, get a flat or have mechanical issues.
• Optional Replacement Cost Coverage on bikes purchased new and insured within 30 days.
• Flexible payment plans so you can choose the plan that best fits your budget.
• Deductible and coverage limit options.
• Premium discounts.

The Foremost Insurance Group of Companies provides all of these important coverages and more in our specialized Motorcycle insurance program. Learn more about coverage options on our motorcycle insurance page, or get a quote

The best part about riding a motorcycle is being up close and personal with the scenery around you. It can be hard to find new places to take your bike and get the most out of every ride. If you are craving a new adventure, look no further! This list of routes highlights some lesser-known areas that are definitely worth a ride.

Cherohala Skyway
The Tail of the Dragon in North Carolina is a frequent #1 must-ride for bikers all across the U.S. With 318 curves in 11 miles, it is perfect for any thrill seeker. Bordered by the Great Smokey Mountains and Cherokee National Forest, it is breathtakingly beautiful and thrilling. The only downside is that its invigorating charm makes it one of the most crowded rides in the country.

Travel 25 minutes southeast and you will find Cherohala Skyway. This 43-mile long ride is less busy, and leads you through the mountains of North Carolina and the forests of Tennessee.

The lack of tourists and buildings make Cherohala the perfect place to get away. There is no civilization for about 41 miles, except for a bathroom or two. If you are looking for a smooth ride with no distractions (other than nature’s overwhelming beauty), this is the ride for you.

 Moonshiner 28
Not too far from Cherohala, Moonshiner 28 offers an entirely different riding experience. The road features good food and plenty of places to stay during your trip. If you are looking for more action during your ride, Moonshiner 28 is for you. 

This 103-mile ride extends from Deal’s Gap to Walhalla, South Carolina, cutting through Georgia along the way. You will encounter beautiful mountains, crashing waterfalls and several lakes on this spectacular route. You won’t want to miss it! Fun fact: Moonshiner 28 was once home to illegal moonshiners on the run from the law, hence the name. Stop at the (now legal) moonshine distilleries along the way to learn about the area’s rich history!

Beartooth Highway
Ready to experience the Wild, Wild West? This 68-mile ride follows U.S. Highway 212 through Montana and Wyoming. Featuring dozens of hairpin turns and switchbacks, this dreamy route is perfect for an experienced rider looking for some serious fun.

The highway will take you through snow-capped mountains and glacial tundra where you can take a break in the alpine meadows and enjoy the scenery. Due to the high altitude, this route is closed from October to May, making it the perfect summer ride. But be cautious! Beartooth Highway is always subject to extreme weather, even during the summer. Be sure to check in with the Beartooth Ranger District before you head out to ensure that conditions are clear for a safe ride.

Peak-to-Peak Highway
​Colorado is known for stunning scenery and a plethora of mountains. Peak-to-Peak Highway is a 60 mile-long ride that boasts incredible, unobstructed views of the Front Range in Rocky Mountain National Park. Be sure to bring hiking boots and a camera so you are prepared for any adventures! There are endless locations to snap pictures or explore the park with easy pullouts along the way.

The ride will take you through Estes Park, which is home to beautiful, clear Lake Estes. Whether you ride past and take in the sights or decide to stop and enjoy the water, the experience is like nothing else. Also, be sure to check out the Continental Divide! This is the location that splits the continent in two with water flowing down both sides of the peak. It is definitely a sight to see.

There are bikers that say the best rides to take are the ones that you have never heard of. Traveling away from the beaten path can lead to some pretty incredible moments. Next time you are out on a ride, take a surprise left! Who knows what you might find.

Source:https://www.foremost.com/learning-center/motorcycle-routes-must-ride-hidden-gems.asp

Most bikers hang up their helmets when the temperature drops, but the dedicated crowd rides on. The key, they say, is staying warm and toasty.

It’s easier to stay warm while you ride than one might think. The temperature feels colder when you are piercing through the air at high speeds, but heated motorcycle accessories and good old fashioned layering will keep you comfortable during your fall ride. Try these tactics to stay warm this fall!

• Heated Seats: ​It is important to keep your body temperature at 98.6 degrees. If it drops any lower, you are at risk of hypothermia and will experience flu-like symptoms. The best way to prevent this is to heat your core with a heated seat. This can be added to your current bike, or purchased in a new bike if you are looking to upgrade.
• Heated Grips: Rider’s hands are subject to extreme cold. Sitting out front in the direct wind stream, fingers are often the first part of your body to show symptoms of cold-related issues. Heated grips are a reliable source of hand warmth, no matter the weather.
• Waterproof Gloves: Heated grips are great for the cold, but they won’t help much in wet weather. Rain or slush spray will soak your gloves, making them useless. Find gloves that are wool-lined with a weatherproof exterior to keep your hands warm and dry.
• Full-Face Helmet: For the colder months, you really need a full-face helmet. The enclosed design prevents wind from hitting your face. The best options may fit tight to provide proper insulation.
• Balaclava: Also known as a ski mask, this garment will provide warmth under your helmet to keep your head and face warm. Look for a balaclava made of wool, which is best for insulation.
• Long Underwear: Layering is a biker’s best friend! Wear wool long johns under your clothing to provide a base layer of warmth. Since they’re under your clothes, they won’t cramp your style.
• Rain Suit: A waterproof rain suit will protect your from the elements. Even if it is not raining, the material blocks the wind to keep you warm. It’s a good idea to keep a rain suit under your seat in case of emergencies. Rain or cold weather can pop up unexpectedly, especially during a long road trip.
• Newspaper: Speaking of unexpected weather… If you unexpectedly find yourself riding in the cold with no gear, stop at a gas station to pick up a newspaper. Put the paper under your jacket and pants to create a barrier from the wind. It’s a DIY trick and it won’t be perfect, but every little bit helps when you’re in a pinch.
• Neck Sock: As you layer up the rest of your body, remember to keep your neck warm. Body heat will escape through any inch of skin left uncovered, so bundle up with a neck sock under your helmet.
• Feet Socks: Socks are super important. Toes, like fingers, are one of the first parts of your body to feel the cold. Invest in thick wool socks to trap in the heat.
• Heated Gear: Jackets and gloves can come equipped with internal heating systems. If you get cold easily, this is a good option for you. These items use power from the bike, so make sure your engine has enough power to handle any accessories.
• Wet Bags: Carry extra plastic bags with you to separate wet clothes on long trips. You don’t want your entire pack getting wet during the ride. Some packs come equipped with wet garment dividers, but large plastic bags will do just fine.
• Blankets: Pack a blanket in case you run into an emergency. Even if you just stop to warm up, an extra blanket will help keep you warm.

Gear can only do so much in protecting you during your cold-weather rides. Make sure to eat before you head out. A full belly kick starts your metabolism, creating energy and promoting blood flow, ultimately keeping your body temperature higher for longer. If you ever feel too cold during your ride, get off the road and find somewhere warm to rest. You want to be in the right headspace and have the physical readiness to take on the journey.
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Now that you know how to stay warm, get the most out of your bike with year-round riding! Just remember to be safe and, most importantly, have fun.

It's 40 degrees outside, the roads are dry, and you've got a couple hours before the big game starts on TV. How about a quick ride? If you've prepped your motorcycle for this kind of opportunity, you're ready to roll. Check out these suggestions for being prepared.

Weatherproofing
Actually it's as much about keeping the elements at bay as it is being mechanically prepared. Wind is not your friend in cold weather. Protection comes in the form of a large windscreen for as much deflection as possible. You can have all the latest in heated clothing and helmet but it's best to keep that frigid air from hitting your core body mass in the first place. Heated grips are a good idea, too, along with a fairing to keep the wind off your legs. You can even find heated foot pegs to help make sure your boots won't slip at a crucial moment.

Mechanical Prep
First make sure your tires are in tip-top shape. You need great tread for cold weather, when traction can be even more important than in warmer months. Check for proper inflation. Cold temperatures can affect pressure levels just as heat affects tire pressure in summer. Also look for any cracks in the rubber.
Cold temperatures can kill batteries quickly. If yours has seen more years of service than you can remember, it could be vulnerable during winter riding. Think about getting a new one. At the very least, check the battery's fluid level and top it off, if necessary. Double-check all battery and ignition connections to avoid corrosion from extra moisture in winter. Change your coolant if you have a water-cooled bike. And bump up its cold weather rating!

Riding Style
Winter is a time to ride more conservatively than usual. You may find more hazards than you're used to seeing in the warmer months. You can experience reduced visibility and cars can have more trouble seeing you, too and stopping in time to prevent a crash. Be extra careful if you run across salt, sand or other road treatments that can make it difficult for your tires to maintain traction. And, if it starts to snow or you encounter icy pavement, do the smart thing. Head for home and wait for a warmer day.

If you live in a climate where the temperature starts dropping in October and there's a chance of snow from November through February, you'll most likely be thinking about putting your motorcycle away for the winter.

Your motorcycle is an investment of your finances and your time, and it's important to think about keeping it clean and safe while the weather is cold and snowy. Wherever you may choose to keep it for the winter season, remember these tips from the Foremost Insurance Group and the American Motorcyclist Association:

Clean it up
Give your bike a good wash and wax and cover it with a breathable cloth cover. This will keep dirt and dust, or other airborne matter in your garage, from settling on your bike.

Gas it up
Top off your tank and add the recommended amount of fuel stabilizer. Stabilizer prevents your fuel from breaking down and producing a brown residue that can coat your carburetor. Run your engine for a few minutes to circulate the treated gas. Since gas is flammable, do not store a motorcycle with a full tank of gas in an area where there is open flame, pilot lights, sparks or motors.

Change the oil
Just before you put your motorcycle into storage, change the oil. Used oil that sits in your bike all winter becomes corrosive and can damage your motorcycle's parts.

Check the coolant
Since motorcycles are not used in freezing temperatures, many riders overlook the use of coolant. Use a floating-ball device to check if your coolant level is sufficient to resist freezing. If it's low, always add according to the manufacturer's directions.

Charge the battery
Remove your battery, store it at a temperature above 32 degrees and trickle-charge it once a month. If you're able to run the bike once a month, leave the battery in the bike and disconnect the negative cable end.

Remember the tires
If you can manage it, store your bike with the motorcycle off the ground. If you can't do this, make sure the tires are properly inflated, set the bike on its stand and rotate the front tire every so often to avoid flat spots.

By taking the time to properly prepare your motorcycle for storage, you'll save more time in the spring when you want to take your motorcycle out on the open road.

Motorcycle insurance
It's important that you have the right motorcycle insurance. You need an insurance policy that offers the coverages that are important to your specific bike and lifestyle. Take a look at our coverage options on our motorcycle insurance page, or get a quote.

Important things to look for when choosing a specialized motorcycle insurance policy:

• Safety Apparel Coverage to protect your investment in helmets, leathers, gloves and any other clothing designed to minimize injury in the event of an accident.
• Optional Equipment Coverage for chroming, custom painting, side cars or anything else that was not included as standard by the manufacturer.
• Optional Towing and Roadside Assistance in case your bikes breaks down and can't be ridden when you're away from home because you run out of gas, get a flat, or have other mechanical issues.
• Optional Replacement Cost Coverage on bikes purchased new and insured within 30 days.
• Flexible payment plans so you can choose the plan that best fits your budget.
• Deductible and coverage limit options.
• Premium discounts.

You've stored your bike all winter long safely, protecting your investment from the harsh temperatures. Follow these helpful motorcycle safety tips from the Foremost Insurance Group and the American Motorcyclist Association to make your first trip worry-free.

Get a service check
It's a good idea to have your bike serviced prior to taking it out for the first ride. Since you've already changed the oil and trickle-charged the battery prior to and during storage you should be in good shape. Have these items, the tires and the coolant checked (if your bike is liquid-cooled) during the service appointment.

Carry a tool kit
Flat tires can cut a ride short. The best way to prepare yourself is to carry tools to temporarily repair a flat and know how to use them. You should always carry a pressure gauge and use it often to help avoid flats. However, accidents do happen. Always carry a tire repair kit and know how to plug the damage and inflate the tire by means of CO2 cartridges, or by using a pump, so you can get to a garage and have the tire replaced. Practice on an old tire.

It's also a good idea to carry a flashlight and a spare fuse. You can't plan when your bike will get a flat or breakdown, so have the tools you need to make minor repairs to get you back on the road. If you're going on a longer trip it's also a good idea to carry a spare electrical relay, fuel filter (if these apply to your bike), headlight bulbs or other similar items that can malfunction. Always carry a cell phone especially if you're riding solo.

Wear the proper gear for your comfort
Your body is exposed to the elements when you ride so protect yourself from temperature and moisture changes. Even a short trip can take you through a variety of temperatures. Carrying an extra pair of dry gloves can make a world of difference. Also consider wearing jackets with venting and removable linings, and layer your clothing so you can add or remove depending on the temperature. In warmer weather bring along a rain suit. The goal is to stay warm and dry.

Enjoy the ride
Take precautions and pack smartly and you'll make great memories. Create a list of things you'll need before you start out, and then add or remove items depending on your experience and your bike.

Motorcycle Insurance
Another important motorcycle safety tip is to make sure you have the right motorcycle insurance coverage. Take a look at our coverage options on our motorcycle insurance page, or get a quote.

Source: https://www.foremost.com/learning-center/get-your-motorcycle-out-of-storage.asp

Whether you've been riding all your life or are looking to purchase your first bike, buying a new-to-you motorcycle can be pretty challenging. What make do I want? What's my budget? Where should I look? Even if you think you know what you're looking for, finding a used bike that meets your criteria is no easy task, especially when there are so many different motorcycles out there!

If you're looking to buy a used motorcycle, read on to help prepare for a better buy – your wallet and watch will thank you later!

Decide what you're using your bike for
What type of riding are you looking to do? Commuting, sports, touring or a combination? A 1000 CC sport bike may get you excited, but there is a good chance you’ll never need that kind of power while commuting to and from work. These are the main types of bikes you can choose from:

• Standard: Meant for doing a little bit of everything.
• Cruiser: Built for relaxed rides with easier clutch/throttle coordination.
• Dual-Sport: Optimized for riding on and off-road.
• Sport Bike: Made for speed and handling.
• Touring: Built for exploration and long rides on the highway.

Inspect the bike
Don't blindly trust the seller's word as truth. If you've owned a motorcycle before, do an inspection on the bike. But if you’ve never done work on a motorcycle before, we suggest inviting someone you trust to check it out before you sign anything. These are the specific areas you should review:

• Drive chain and sprocket. The chain should have around 3/4" of play and the teeth of the sprocket should not show obvious damage or wear.
• Tires. They should have good tread across the surface with no signs of uneven wear or damage.
• Brake and clutch levers. Familiarize yourself with how the controls feel.
• Fuel tank. Check for obvious signs of rush or corrosion using a flashlight. DO NOT USE A MATCH OR LIGHTER.
• Brake fluid level. This is usually on top of handlebars, in an enclosure with a clear window. Watch the fluid level rise and fall while releasing the front brakes.

Request a service history
The seller may not have that information, but request the history in case they do! This will help you understand what kind of service has been recently done on the bike. The tires may be new but the oil could be a few years old. Also ask for an owner's manual and factory toolkit if available.

Prepare your documents for purchase
Remember that you can't legally ride a motorcycle unless you have a bike license! Take a safety course if you've never owned a motorcycle and purchase a DOT-approved helmet before your first ride. Don't know what kind of helmet to get? Read Protecting Your Noggin to help find a helmet that meets your needs.

Take a test drive
Pick a nice day with dry roads to test drive the bike. And don't forget your bike license and helmet! If at a dealership, be prepared to sign an insurance waiver; if private, be ready to leave your license with the seller as security. Start slowly on the bike to get used to how it feels and responds. Remember to test the brakes–they shouldn't 'pulse,' but rather engage smoothly and evenly. It's also a good idea to accelerate through the gears. The transmission should feel firm and not slip out of gear under acceleration or feel chunky.

Be realistic about negotiations
Use retail pricing guides to help determine your purchase price and understand that the seller probably has a specific price they're looking to reach. If you're buying from a private seller, respect their ride and understand that they've probably taken pride in it over the years. But don't be afraid to say "no" if negotiations aren't going the way you want – you still have the final say.

Insure the bike through Us
This one is obvious, but if you do buy a bike, don't ride naked! Be sure to protect your tail…pipe with reputable insurance from our best carrier for this market: Foremost. They've been offering specialized insurance policies since 1952 and understand your lifestyle! They also have an award-winning team of claims professionals who are available 24/7 to help restore your life to order after a claim. Visit our Motorcycle Insurance - Definitions and FAQ's page to learn more or start a quote!


Source: https://blog.foremost.com/tips-for-buying-a-used-motorcycle.asp