When your teen starts driving, it can be frightening at times. If your teen is interested in driving a motorcycle instead of a car, then it can add more fear because of the lack of protection that a car would offer. However, if you talk to your teen about proper motorcycle safety and seek the assistance of someone who is experienced to teach your teen how to ride a motorcycle, then both of you can feel comfortable with this method of transportation.
Find the Proper Gear
Before your teen gets on a motorcycle, you need to shop for the proper gear. A helmet should be at the top of the list of items that are needed when riding. If your teen doesn’t want to wear leather while riding, then consider getting at least a leather jacket or leather protection for the pants as this is a strong material and won’t tear as easily in the event of an accident. Boots or sturdy shoes should be worn instead of sandals or flip-flops, which can help you get comfortable riding your Harley.
Show the Correct Positioning
Get on the bike to show your teen the proper way to position their hands and feet while riding. If possible, take your teen out for a ride as a way to show how to stay in the lane, how to change lanes, how to turn and how to use the components of the bike.
You also want to show your teen how to watch for other drivers, as there are some people on the road who don’t look for motorcycles because they are smaller and less noticeable. If the worst occurs while your teen driving a motorcycle and he or she is in a serious accident, a personal injury attorney from places like The Jaklitsch Law Group can help to determine what can be done about compensation for medical bills and other financial liabilities.
Pay Attention
Riding a motorcycle is a bit different than driving a car. Even though you’re the only one on the bike, it requires more attention to the road and the surroundings because other people don’t pay as much attention to these vehicles. Discuss with your teen how to use the mirrors and how to pay attention to the sounds and actions of other drivers just as much as the actions that are made on the bike.
Weather Factors
The weather can sometimes play a big part in whether your teen should ride a motorcycle. Monitor the weather forecast for the current day as well as the rest of the week. If rain is in the forecast, then your teen might want to make plans to use a different vehicle as rain can make it harder to see and can make the road slick.
Communication about how to ride a bike is the first step in teaching your teen how to ride. Go shopping with your teen to get the right gear for riding. If you practice, then you’re both going to feel comfortable behind the wheel of the bike instead of worrying about being on the road.