6 Myths about Motorcycles Debunked!

Motorcycles have gotten a bad reputation over the years and the myths about motorcycles just keep building. Today, we’ll take a look at some of these myths and explain why they couldn’t be further from the truth.

Myth #1: Motorcycles are dangerous.

Most parents try to warn their children away from riding motorcycles with this argument. While riding motorcycles does carry some inherent risk, it’s just as dangerous as skiing, bungee jumping, and smoking. Statistically, more people die from tobacco products than are killed in motorcycle accidents. Learning how to ride safely and efficiently will greatly reduce the risk of injury on the road and modern technology is always improving overall safety of the ride.

Myth #2: Petite individuals can’t ride a motorcycle

Unfortunately, the stereotype of motorcyclists has become one of big, strong, and burly men dressed in riding leathers, speeding down the road. The truth is, while motorcycles are heavy, you don’t have to be particularly large or strong to handle them. Most manufacturers have bikes that fit even the most petite riders. A small woman will find a bike completely different from the one a six foot tall bodybuilder would use. Motorcycles are designed to be used by everyone, from that businessman in a suit to your high school math teacher.

Myth #3: Motorcycles crash easily.

It’s common belief that motorcycles will crash if they hit a small stick in the road. If this were the case, there would be many more crashes reported each year. In truth, most motorcycles will be able to roll right over small obstructions on the road, keeping the rider safe. While loose gravel can pose a challenge for motorcycles, with proper training and riding technique, riders will be able to pass over the hazard without any problems.

Myth #4: Helmets make it more dangerous.

This myth could not be further from the truth. The common thought is that helmets restrict your field of vision and encourage car drivers to act more recklessly around motorcycles. However, helmets are instrumental in reducing the severity of injuries in accidents and, often times, save motorcycle riders’ lives. While helmets do restrict your peripheral vision somewhat, it’s not enough to impact your riding. Additionally, helmets also buffer your ears from wind noise, making it far easier to hear that car coming up next to you. Modern helmets are designed to be lightweight, keep you cool, and protect you in a crash. Wearing one should always be a priority, no matter how skilled of a rider you think you are.

Myth #5: Front brakes will flip your bike, so you should only use the rear brake.

Front brakes have the most stopping power on the bike, and while this myth is technically true if the conditions are right, it is far more common for the bike to simply slow down or come to a stop without lifting off the ground. If you rely solely on the rear brake, the bike will simply skid forward without coming to a stop in time to avoid the hazard.

Myth #6: Fast motorcycles won’t be detected by speed cameras.

While we wish this myth was true, speed cameras can, and will, pick up a speeding bike just as easily as a car. The size of the vehicle makes no difference to their ability to catch a speeder. In fact, the only way to avoid being caught by a speed camera is to go the speed limit.

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