Riding your motorcycle is fun, day or night! If you want to do a bit of night-riding, here are a few easy-to-follow tips to consider.
Remember that when you are riding during the day, it's hard enough for motorists to see a motorcycle, and when you are riding at night, you can be almost invisible unless you're wearing the proper reflective clothing and are riding a white bike loaded with lots of extra lights.
If you're on a long highway trip, try to minimize your night riding.
This can be especially vital if you are older and are finding your vision is somewhat impaired.
When you are traveling down the highway, keep your low beam on, but be ready to use your high beams.
You will see farther down the road and light up any hazards or objects along the highway.
As a rule of thumb wear good bright reflectors on your helmet and jacket.
Remember also that noise can carry a long way at night, so if you have loud pipes or one of the sport-exhaust systems such as flowmaster exhaust or Samson exhaust, these can definitely add to the decibels and will carry farther at night than any other time of the day.
Remember to wear good warm clothing, because the temperature usually drops at night.
Carrying a good, bright flashlight in your saddlebag along with a cell phone with good batteries is always a good practice.
Animals love to travel at night and especially deer, so be prepared to stop completely, if necessary, to avoid striking or being struck by a deer.
One golden rule that should never be broken is, never drink and ride, and always be wary of drunk drivers.
Take rounding curves with caution as loose gravel or sand may send you into a skid.
Try to stay away from bad neighborhoods where someone may attempt to steal your bike or damage it.
It is important to be very comfortable with your day riding skills before you attempt to ride your bike after dark.