3 Tips to Make You a Better Motorcycle Commuter

 

I moved to southern CA from Alaska the year before the COVID-19 pandemic hit and started my transportation journey with the LA Metro bus #4 along Santa Monica Blvd and rented E-bikes/B-scooters. Bird and Lime were the big ones to use at that time. Moving to the city was a culture shock. Everything was fast. Life was fast. I didn't understand it. My slow way of life was interrupted. I learned to drive a car in the city and I also quickly learned how much it SUCKED. When COVID-19 restrictions made it easier for everyone to stay home, I bought a Yamaha R3 and took to the streets. It was my first time to learn a sport bike. I was excited, scared to fail, and obsessed.

 

It is now 2024 and I regularly commute to work as well as ride for fun. I have been commuting nearly every day for the past few years—I even lived my life in CA with only motorcycles for a year! Over the years, I've noticed there are a few things keeping me safe that I'd like to share. There are plenty of resources to keep you informed as a street rider. I'll also list them below.

These are just a few tips based on preparation, adaptability, and safety consciousness that will help make any commuter more aware and get home safe.

 

Know Your Route

 

Having commuted to the same workplace for quite some time, my daily routine feels like second nature. While I occasionally opt for a different path, safety remains paramount during my journey to work.

Over time, I've noticed distinct traffic patterns along my route, almost like clockwork. For example, if I take a certain freeway to work, departing between 7 and 8:30 AM, there are 3 sections where traffic abruptly slowdown, moving at nearly 25% the speed they were carrying prior. There are two sections where lane one stops and cars tend to jump lanes, a very dangerous maneuver. Exits that back up for almost a mile and signalized intersections where drivers have a tendency to accelerate through red lights, rather than stopping, are cause for observance.

These observations underscore the importance of remaining vigilant on the road. It's not just about knowing the route; it's about anticipating potential risks and adjusting accordingly. Moreover, considering factors like fatigue, especially during peak commute hours or at the end of the week, adds another layer of caution to my journey.

Memorizing its nuances and observing traffic daily not only enhances safety but also aids in planning for potential hazards, which is also essential on the way home!

 

Know Your Motorcycle

 

While it sounds very basic, even I learn a better way to do things on my motorcycle when I pay attention and put in some intentional practice. Like anything, operating a motorcycle is a skill that can be built up or lost over time.

Understanding how to operate your motorcycle effectively is essential for a smooth commute. Before hitting the road, familiarize yourself with your bike's controls and features. Practice braking, cornering/turning, and acceleration in a controlled environment to build confidence. You can even practice intentionally while going somewhere.

 

Key aspects of smooth motorcycle operation:

Braking: Master front and rear braking for optimal stopping power. 

Cornering: Learn to lean into turns and maintain appropriate speeds. 

Acceleration: Practice smooth throttle control for seamless acceleration. 

Handling: Get comfortable with your bike's weight and balance and notice your inputs to the machine.
  

Understanding your motorcycle is fundamental to a smooth commute. With the myriad of bikes available, knowing your machine inside & out ensures you're prepared for any journey.

Regular maintenance is key. Refer to your owner's manual for scheduled inspections and component replacements, but remember, there are nuances. Seek advice from your mechanic for tailored guidance.

Here are some essential self-checks that I do regularly:

Tire pressure:  will be stated on a sticker on your motorcycle, typically under the seat or on the rear swing arm but varies per motorcycle.

Tire wear:  Varies per manufacturer and tire type

Chain grease:  Regular greasing is essential, frequency varies based on riding style, weather, and road conditions.

Chain slack:  Check according to the specifications in your owner's manual.

A visual inspection before each ride can quickly identify any issues. Learning basic maintenance tasks from resources like YouTube or friends can empower you to handle routine tasks yourself.

While some tasks are easy for me to manage, I still take my Yamaha FZ09 to the shop for valve adjustments and tire changes. Those are things I don't have the tools to complete and, for me, it's worth paying a mechanic for those services. Also, consider roadside assistance services as a backup plan for unexpected mechanical issues.

Consistent practice and diligent motorcycle maintenance contribute to a safer and more enjoyable commuting experience.

Know The Conditions

I'm blessed with great year-round riding weather in Southern CA. The most severe weather we get is rain storms or intense fog, which are not to be taken lightly. Back home, I'd have to deal with -20°F on the regular in winter. Snow, ice, and darkness were environments not impossible to ride in, but made it that much more important to be aware of your abilities and motorcycle.

It's essential to stay informed about weather conditions for a safe commute. Ensure your tires are suitable for wet roads if you ride in the rain frequently, and dress appropriately for cold/hot weather. Even sunny conditions pose risks, such as heat stroke in summer. Stay hydrated and take breaks in extreme heat. For longer commutes, consider stopping for water often.

It is also good to get to know the road itself. Does your route have potholes? Maybe it rained and they got bigger or something new opened up. Was there a dust storm that left sand on the road? Perhaps a certain area is slick for whatever reason? Or maybe the sun glare in a certain direction makes it harder to see.

Your own body's condition is something to consider. Tiredness, fatigue, or being emotionally reactive can give way to a higher risk of mistakes. Physical fitness can also play a factor, as well as hydration. If you need to ride and you're not feeling 100%, try to account for that and allow for more space between yourself and other vehicles. 

Whether it's rain, cold, or scorching heat, taking proactive measures like evaluating how you feel, using good tires, wearing weather appropriate clothing, or staying hydrated can make all the difference in a safe and comfortable commute.

 

End Notes

In the realm of motorcycle commuting, safety is paramount. By staying vigilant, prepared, and adaptable, you not only ensure your own well-being but also contribute to a safer commuting environment for all road users. So, as you embark on your next journey, remember to prioritize safety above all else, because arriving safely is the ultimate destination.

 

I have resources near Los Angeles that are available to riders seeking more knowledge and seat time in a controlled environment. I have taken both, the CMSP when I was first starting and more recently, Ride to Live. Both gave me valuable information and seat time to become a safer rider.

California Motorcyclists Safety Program

Tailored to absolute beginners, signing up for a course and passing leaves a new rider with skills required to operate a motorcycle safely.

Ride to Live (Hawthorne)

A program offered for free monthly to riders with an M1 who want to become better informed and skilled. The courses started with Hawthorne Police Department and quickly gained traction in other policing jurisdictions. Look up "Ride to Live" and you may be able to find one in a city near you.