Road Captains Corner

Road Captains 2005

The Kirkwood Chapter has made sure that all road captains have had advanced training in safety and riding skills. We would like to thank the St. Charles City Park Rangers for giving us the time to sharpen our skills, and we would recommends that all motorcyclist take the course. If you are interested in the course call Mike Cordry at 636-949 -3377.

Motorcycle Safety Tips

Whenever you ride always wear your proper riding gear which includes a helmet (DOT approved or better), eye protection (face shield, goggles or shatter resistant full coverage glasses), long sleeved shirt or jacket, full fingered gloves, long pants (denim or leather), and over the ankle boots or sturdy shoes with non skid soles.  You'll be more comfortable, safer and ultimately enjoy riding even more.

At night, be careful not to override your motorcycle's headlight.  And take extra care to be seen by other drivers by wearing reflective clothing and using reflective tape and decals.

In addition to the pre-ride inspection you should know how to do minor maintenance and service on your motorcycle, especially important on long rides and trips.  Be sure to read your owner's manual and follow the directions.

When you brake, use both brakes together.  Generally speaking, when conditions are good, the front brake accounts for as much as 2/3 of the bike's stopping power.  How much brake pressure to use depends on the your abilities, you bike's capabilities, and the environment.

Slow down before going into a curve.  Look through the curve and gently accelerate as you enter and drive through the curve.  This gentle acceleration creates stability but cannot be accomplished with the proper braking prior to entering the curve.

Mud, sand, water and other foreign debris on the road take special handling.  Before reaching a slippery surface, slow down and avoid directional or speed changes as you ride through the hazard.

Remember that the first few minutes of a rain storm are the most dangerous as the water mixes with the oil and fluids on the roadway.  Avoid riding during this time, if possible.  If you must ride try to ride in the tracks of the other vehicles in front of you as they force away the water and oils.

Standing on the pegs can help you keep control of your cycle when riding over obstacles or rough surfaces.  Keep your knees and elbows bent, look past the hazard in the direction you want to go and maintain a steady speed.

Always plan ahead - you never know what kind of problems may be coming up.  Know what you'll have to do if you suddenly skid, have a blowout, or loose clutch or throttle control.

Riding with a passenger makes balance and control of your bike a great challenge.  Make sure your passenger is wearing all of the proper riding gear, knows where and how to sit, where to put their feet and hands and how to lean through turns.  Tell them to look over your shoulder in the direction of the turn.  Remember that the passenger is "your" responsibility and should be properly educated, prepared and ready to ride.

Never ride if you have consumed any drugs, alcohol, prescription, or otherwise.  Your best weapon on the bike, you judgment , becomes impaired and your ability to reaction time is slowed.

When you carry loads, be sure to fasten them securely to the motorcycle and keep the heavier objects low and towards the center of gravity of the bike.  Never secure loads where they will affect your steering, handling, or site of the road ahead.

Motorcycle Safety Check Guide

What follows are general recommendations and guidelines.  For specific information you should refer to your owner's manual or ask your dealer or qualified mechanic.

Make sure your headlights, taillights, turn signals, horn and brake lights are working properly.

Check all fluid levels (fuel, oil, hydraulic, coolant, etc.) and make sure they are at the proper levels or adequate for the ride.

Inspect for loose spokes, if applicable, wheel alignment and travel, and your tires for wear and proper inflation.

If your bike is chain driving, check it for proper tension.  Rule of thumb is about 3/4 inch of free play.

Make sure your side stand and center stand will remain in the up position while riding.

Periodically inspect your engine area and frame for loose bolts and fasteners.  Remember to tighten to manufacture specifications.