Unlike car sales, which first experienced a decline because of COVID19 restrictions, motorcycle sales worldwide have boomed since the pandemic started. Motorcycle dealerships around the world are surprised by this success. Dirt bikes, racing bikes, and sports bikes are the leading types of bikes selling like crazy since the start of January 2020. Moto parts and accessories are also in demand because of this huge success. What is the reason for this sales increase? People are yearning to try something new. After getting cooped up in the safety of their homes for months, more people feel the need to try out an activity associated with the outdoors and adventure. Other than ATVs and UTVs, there is no other vehicle that fits the description except a motorcycle. The motorcycle is simply a fun and practical vehicle to own. So what are the other reasons why more and more people are choosing to buy a bike during a pandemic?
Practicality
Most motorcycles are cheaper than vehicles. Cost-wise they are easier to maintain. Accessories and components like dirt bike parts are readily available, even online.
Fuel efficiency
Since gas prices worldwide have gone up, owning a motorcycle during these trying times is a great idea. They are proven to be more fuel-efficient even compared to hybrid cars. Riding a motorbike can save you thousands of dollars in fuel costs. Since they require less fuel to operate and resources to build, they are environmentally friendly.
They are awesome!
Don't you find people riding motorcycles cool? They look fearless and ready to conquer the world. Nothing describes the word awesome the best than motorcycles.
Tranquility
Just thinking of fresh air hitting your face while riding a bike is relaxing. Studies have proven that motorcycling can indeed reduce stress and increase mental alertness. While motorcycling, a rider's adrenaline is similar to the rush of energy felt while doing a light exercise. Happy hormones called endorphins are released with every flick of the wrist.
Easy commute
Motorcycles don't take up too much space on the road. It can effortlessly get in and out of a traffic jam, making the commute faster. No one wants to get stuck in traffic for hours.
Social interaction
Making new friends on the road is fun. If you find yourself in a social situation, always remember to keep a safe distance between each other while doing so.
Connection to nature
Since motorcycles are versatile vehicles, you can head anywhere you want to and enjoy the beauty of nature. Because of the threat of the COVID19 virus, more people are outdoors, where they can enjoy solitude. The idea of interacting with a crowd seems frightening in this day and time.
How can you keep yourself safe and healthy while traveling on a motorcycle?
Be in good health.
If you are not feeling well, do not leave the house. You can be a danger to yourself and other people if you are sick on the road.
Wear proper riding gear.
Invest in proper riding gear like a full-face helmet, riding gloves, pants, and boots. These gears can help save your life in case of an accident.
Inspect your motorcycle.
Before heading out on the road, inspect your motorcycle. Make sure it is in good condition. Upgrade and replace parts if needed. Invest in good-quality motorcycle brakes, tires, and exhaust. Modifications like aftermarket motorcycle exhausts are proven to improve the performance of a motorbike.
Observe speed limits.
It is tempting to speed while riding a powerful motorcycle but doing so will get you in trouble. Either you'll get into an accident or be apprehended by traffic enforcers.
Check the weather forecast.
Riding a motorcycle in challenging weather conditions is dangerous. Do not attempt to traverse icy roads or get drenched in heavy rain. Both situations can lead to accidents.
Study your route.
Know the best way to your destination by planning your route. Make your journey less stressful by knowing which roads to take. You can make use of navigation apps to help you reach your destination. It can also help you avoid roadworks and traffic jams.
Practice road courtesy.
Motorcycle riders have a bad reputation on the road. Practice good judgment on the road. Make sure that other vehicles and fellow motorcycle riders have adequate space for driving. Use turn signals when switching lanes. Avoid riding in blind spots. Ride safely at all times.
Get to know your bike.
Do not ride your motorcycle beyond your comfort level. If you are a newbie, you can undergo a riding course until you feel confident enough to take your bike on the road.
Ride in small groups.
If you can not ride solo, ride with a small group of people whom you can trust. It would be safer to hang with individuals who practice basic health protocols to protect themselves, their loved ones, and their community.
Sanitize.
It won't hurt to practice proper hand hygiene. If you stop in public places, do not forget to sanitize your hands, avoid touching any part of your face, and lastly, disinfect your motorcycle gears such as helmets and hand gloves and frequently touched parts like the handlebar. Keep your items clean and secure inside a small bag, where you can store essential things like your mobile phone, hand sanitizer, face mask, and anti-bacterial wipes.
Mask up.
If you are stopping somewhere crowded or in commercial areas that are enclosed, it is still highly recommended to wear a face mask. In some cities, there are still mandates that require people to wear masks indoors.
Choose a safe lodging.
Some motorcycle trips require you to be gone for days. Choose accommodations that you deem to be safe from crowds, such as rental cabins or hotel rooms. Some campsites are crowded and make it impossible for guests to practice social distancing.
There are hundreds of reasons why we should try riding a motorcycle during these challenging times. Whatever your reason is, always remember to practice road courtesy and ride safely.
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