7 Ways to Stay Relaxed During a Motorcycle Ride

The American love for the road might stem from its roots when the population roamed open spaces and prairies. Now, Americans ride toward nature and away from cities on motorcycles.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has observed that motorcycle registrations doubled between 2002 and 2021. In addition, the number of motorcyclist fatalities has also increased.

In 2020, the Insurance Information Institute recorded almost 5,600 fatalities.

As motorcyclists enjoy the road, they must remain vigilant while riding. If an accident does occur, remember that legal help is available, including the team at Avian Law.

Motorcyclists must balance staying vigilant and relaxed during rides. After all, you remain exposed to road debris, weather elements, and other vehicles.

The following are seven ways to stay relaxed during a motorcycle ride.

1. Customize Your Ride

Most motorcyclists invest in their rides by customizing factory versions. Customization options include:

• Paint
• Seat
• Exhaust pipes
• Tires
• Lighting

In addition, riders ensure that they can comfortably reach and hold the handlebar for extended periods.

Reaching for the handles in uncomfortable positions will cause strain. Unfortunately, it can lead to soreness and discomfort for a few days, preventing relaxing while riding.

2. Mind Your Posture

Customizing the ride is essential for staying relaxed, even on short trips. It will improve posture and keep riders comfortable. The custom features will encourage proper posture since riders don’t need to reach further than necessary.

Proper riding posture keeps riders in good shape. The posture will become second nature with practice, support joints, and keep muscles healthy.

After becoming comfortable with the proper posture, riders can relax their bodies slightly. Sink into the position slightly without slouching and enjoy it.

3. Loosen Your Grip

Motorcyclists remain vulnerable during rides to the elements and traffic. Thus, it’s easy to tense up during trips. 

However, relax your body slightly by loosening your grip. A tense grip will cause soreness for a few days, which impacts rides.

Riders who start tensing up their grips should explore why. For example, do you feel discomfort and want to compensate for it? 

Tightening the grip could signal that it’s time to take a break.

4. Enjoy the Scenery

It’s OK to relax while riding; one way to stay loose is to enjoy the scenery. Some motorcycles can reach areas that vehicles cannot. Therefore, enjoy your surroundings.

Researchers continue documenting the relaxing effects of nature and bodies of water on humans. Since motorcyclists can navigate traffic more efficiently, they can take scenic routes.

Riders must adhere to the posted speed limits. However, they can still arrive at their destinations faster than vehicle drivers. Therefore, enjoy freedom and relax.

5. Take Breaks

If relaxing during a trip becomes challenging, take breaks. Safely pull off the main roads at designated vistas and enjoy the scenery. Take a few breaths and wait until you feel your body loosen up.

Another option is to take breaks at gas stations where you can fill the gas tank and hydrate. You can also grab a bite to eat.

Most motorcyclists ride when the sun rises and sets. It’s a good idea to avoid riding at night or during inclement weather. Thus, take breaks when road conditions change and when your body signals for them.

6. Grab a Bite and Hydrate

Before riding, grab a bite and hydrate. Focusing on your safety is challenging if your stomach starts growling or your mouth and throat feel parched.

Like other drivers, avoid eating anything too heavy before heading out on the road. You also want to avoid eating foods that might make you drowsy or tense. 

It’s OK to enjoy a cup of coffee and pastry. However, avoid consuming too much caffeine.

For long rides, consider having a hearty breakfast or lunch that consists of protein, nuts, and greens.

7. Focus on the Road

In addition to focusing on the scenery, focus on the road. Imagine yourself looking toward the horizon and future. You can also focus on the destination. 

If the above tips cause riders to stress instead of relax, practice riding more.

Conclusion

Freedom, speed, and transportation savings are among the top reasons individuals ride motorcycles. Proper posture, enjoying the scenery, and staying hydrating are some ways riders can relax and enjoy it fully.