Many people dream of owning a motorcycle. They cannot wait to get out on the open road and explore the world without being confined in a car. However, quite a few individuals cannot understand this desire. They have firmly established misconceptions about bikers.

 

One thing every person must remember is bikers are as unique as all other people in the world. Each biker has their reasons for wanting to own and ride a motorcycle. What are some other common misconceptions that need to be dispelled if people are to understand this diverse group?

 

Motorcycles Are Meant for Short Distances

 

Countless individuals assume motorcycles are designed for short rides. A person would never take a bike cross country willingly, would they? There are many types of motorcycles, and some are designed for long trips. While a person cannot carry as much with them if they choose to take their bike on a long trip, it will still be an enjoyable ride.

 

A bike with slicks, on the other hand, should never be used on public roads. A significant amount of heat is needed for the slicks to maintain grip. The only way a biker can generate this heat is to keep the bike at a constant speed while braking aggressively. In addition, they must constantly lean in both directions. Doing these three things on a public road isn’t possible. For this reason, a bike with slicks is only for the racetrack. Bikers must consider this when choosing their next ride, and non-bikers must understand this is why they never see slicks on the road...

 

Only Young Males Ride Motorcycles

 

Never assume young men are the only ones who ride bikes. People of all ages and sexes love motorcycles. In the past 20 years, motorcycle ownership has doubled. While men still account for 80 percent of motorcycle owners, this number has been decreasing. Ten years ago, women accounted for 10 percent of all motorcycle owners. Today, that number is 20 percent.

 

Furthermore, approximately 48 percent of motorcycle owners are 50 years of age or older. Preferences change over time, which helps to explain why more older individuals are choosing to rise. However, economic factors may also play a role in this shift.

 

Motorcycles aren’t strictly for blue-collar workers either. 42 percent of owners have a minimum of a four-year degree. The average income of bike owners is $85,300. This figure suggests a certain level of financial stability is needed before purchasing a bike.

 

Gear is for Looks Only

 

Bikers don’t wear leather jackets and riding boots because they make them look good. The gear motorcyclists wear is for safety reasons. The pavement is hard while the skin is thin. If the biker has an accident, this gear will help to minimize injuries. Although these items won’t make a biker indestructible, they are of great help.

 

The choice of gear is also important. When purchasing items to wear while riding, a biker needs to consider what this gear is made of and how it is constructed. CE ratings also need to be taken into account. Once the CE rating has been determined, the choice of gear becomes a matter of personal preference and how much the rider is willing to spend.

 

A person can purchase used motorcycle clothing, but the same cannot be said about motorcycle helmets. If the clothing is in excellent shape, the rider can feel comfortable that it will provide the anticipated level of protection. Avoid purchasing used motorcycle helmets. Always buy new ones to ensure the highest level of protection.

 

Bikers Are All Gang Members

 

One common misconception that endures is the one about all bikers being part of gangs. A person sees a biker and figures they are a common criminal with no respect for others. While there are many biker groups in the country today, they frequently do good deeds. For example, they may ride for a nonprofit or charity to raise funds.

 

Other groups aren’t gangs but are a brotherhood of riders with similar interests. They never break the law. The information on their jacket or vest shows they are part of the group, much like athletes wear jerseys with their team names.

 

Bikers are Reckless Daredevils

 

Many people assume those who ride motorcycles are reckless. They are looking for an adrenaline high and have no respect for traffic laws or other motorists on the road. Some bikers can be classified this way, but that is not the case with all. Most riders are responsible when out on the road. They put safety first, wanting to make it home to ride another day.

 

In addition, many accidents involving only the motorcycle occur off the roadway. The crash occurs on a median, parking land, shoulder, or roadside. Accidents with another object account for over half of the fatalities in these accidents. Bikers must know this and take extra precautions, particularly at night.

 

Of the 60 percent of accidents involving another vehicle, many are the result of speeding, alcohol use, or rider skill. Drivers must pay attention to motorcyclists on the road, but bikers must do their part and ride responsibly. Every person has a duty of care when operating any type of motor vehicle, including a bike.

 

Bikes Are Noisy

 

Some bikers choose to make modifications to their exhaust systems to produce more noise when they ride. As a result, noise pollution increases, and people begin complaining about motorcycles in general. Not all bikes are loud, and many riders prefer a quiet motorcycle. They want to hear what is going on around them when they go for a ride. Today, manufacturers must comply with emissions standards and noise regulations, so noisy bikes are often the result of modifications rather than anything the manufacturer did.

 

Motorcycles continue to increase in popularity. As more people pick up this hobby, dispelling common myths becomes even more important. Bikers deserve respect on the road, just as every driver does. Never allow a few bad apples to spoil one’s perception of motorcyclists. Doing so isn’t fair. Take a second look at bikers in the community. Those who do so are often surprised by what they see.