Five Tips to Improve Your Riding

At RC Components, we specialize in manufacturing custom motorcycle wheels, brake rotors, and other unique accessories that let your bike stand out from the crowd. We do this because we love motorcycles. We believe that there’s nothing better than setting out on the highway, sun on your face, and carving up the road on two wheels. If you’re like us, you live for your rides, whether pleasure cruises or simple errands, and you want your bike to look top notch. We’ve put together a few tips to help you improve your daily rides.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

While it’s always tempting to throw caution to the wind and ride at breakneck speeds, be aware of your surroundings. When riding in traffic, obey the rules of the road. While weaving in and out of slow-moving cars can be fun and exhilarating, it can also ruin your ride. When you move quickly in and out of traffic, cars may not be able to see you in time to avoid you, resulting in a potentially life-threatening crash. Similarly, exercise more caution on wet roads and save your speed for the track.

Stay In Shape

While driving is a sedentary activity, bike riding is far more physically and mentally demanding. After all, that’s part of what drives us to ride. In order to get the most out of your rides, and to go home without the dreaded cowboy walk, you need to stay in shape. We’re not saying you should run marathons a couple times a year (unless you want to), but you should at least be somewhat active. Go for a walk a few times a week, stretch every day, and look forward to many more years on two wheels.

Don’t be Complacent

Riding, like driving a car, can become a matter of habit, even for the most ardent enthusiast. Don’t let yourself fall into a state of complacency, going through the motions because you have them memorized. Motorcycles require active participation from the rider. Bikes are more susceptible to road conditions, so staying aware of potholes, debris, and other hazards will go a long way towards keeping your bike upright. If your local track or motorcycle club is offering a skills course one weekend, go ahead and take it. Even if you’re a skilled rider, you can benefit from the additional practice in a controlled setting. Always keep your skills sharp.

Listen to Your Body

If you’re feeling stiff or sore, pull over, especially on longer rides. Everyone, no matter how young, gets stiff after several hours in the saddle. Take breaks to stretch and walk around. If you’re a seasoned rider, don’t push yourself. As we age, our bodies can’t handle the same stresses we put on them when we were younger. Be mindful of how your body feels and stop when you need to. Your body will thank you for it later.

Don’t Stop Riding

Don’t let one close call ruin your motorcycling experience. Close calls shake everyone up without exception. Drivers are often less aware of bikers and often fail to look for them when changing lanes or passing. While getting tapped by a car or swerving out of their way to avoid a collision will get your adrenaline pulsing, don’t give up. The more motorcycles on the road, the safer we become. That said, always wear the right gear. Helmets can be customized, just like your bike, so stay safe while looking your best.

RC Components is your best choice for custom motorcycle wheels. Browse our selection and order your wheels today!