Warm summer weather means cookouts with friends and family, long vacations, and finally getting your bike out of storage. While hitting the road can be thrilling, riders still need to take precautions, especially if they don’t have a lot of experience. From maintaining your bike to checking your insurance policy before the first ride of the season, the below tips will help ensure you’re ready for whatever comes your way.

How Motorcyclists Can Ride Safely in Summer

1. Inspect Your Bike

Over time, your tires gradually lose pressure, which makes them vulnerable to rot and cracks. Check the tire pressure and examine the rubber for signs of wear, rot, or damage. Gasoline may also go bad over the winter, so open the tank and smell the fuel. If it doesn’t smell like gas, drain the tank, clean the carburetor, and inspect the fuel lines for signs of leakage. If you didn’t change the oil before putting your bike away, now is the perfect time for new lubricant and fresh fluids.

2. Use Safety Gear

New Mexico only requires riders under the age of 18 to wear a motorcycle helmet. However, everyone should wear head protection at all times. Brightly colored or reflective clothing will also make you more visible to other drivers, decreasing your chances of being in an accident in the first place.

3. Check Your Insurance

Many bikers reduce coverage or increase their deductibles over the winter months to lower costs. However, accidents can occur at any time. As such, talk to your insurance agent and review your policy before taking your bike out for the first time. Working with an agent is the best way to ensure you receive optimal coverage with the lowest rates.

Motorcycle insurance is a crucial investment for every rider, providing protection against losses and lawsuits that often follow serious accidents. The independent agents at Western States Insurance Group are dedicated to giving you the security of knowing that your assets are protected against the unexpected. Visit their website for a closer look at their services, follow their Twitter for updates, or call (575) 396-1318 to request your free quote.