Safety Tips for Your New Trike
If you’re looking to buy a trike you may be curious about potential safety hazards, requirements, or equipment for your new vehicle. To help make sure you’re staying safe out on the road we’ve put together some helpful info and a few tips! When you’re ready, stop by Willamette Valley Harley-Davidson in Eugene, Oregon, and get your new trike today
Safety Benefits
Because they aren’t as popular as traditional two-wheeled motorcycles, there isn’t always much information regarding trikes and road safety. However, trikes are considered much safer than your average motorcycle. This is in part due to their larger size. It’s much easier for drivers to see trikes, and cars tend to give them a wide berth. Trike drivers also can’t weave in and out of cars and traffic lanes as smaller motorcycles can, which also decreases accidents. Finally, a trike doesn’t require its rider to lean in order to turn, greatly reducing accidents due to high speeds or sharp turns.
Safety Laws
Generally speaking, safety ordinances that apply to motorcycles in your area will also apply to trikes. It’s important to check your local ordinances as they can vary quite a bit from region to region. In general, across the U.S. It’s required that trike owners wear a helmet. This is an important safety requirement we encourage you to follow, even if local ordinances don’t enforce it. When purchasing your helmet you’ll want to try it on to confirm it fits snugly and doesn’t affect your vision. We also advise you to look for a helmet that’s DOT (Department of Transportation) approved.
Gear
There are a few items you’ll want to have with you when you ride your trike to ensure your safety. One of the most important pieces of equipment you’ll need is an emergency toolbox. Whether you’re traveling long distances or simply have an inconvenient breakdown, your emergency toolbox can get you back on the road long enough to avoid getting stranded.
Another important part of trike safety is dressing in the correct safety gear. As we’ve mentioned you’ll need a helmet. However, if you're traveling for a long time, you’ll also want some protective clothing, such as a leather jacket and thick, durable pants. We also advise purchasing a pair of durable riding boots to protect your feet while stopping and starting your trike. You’re also welcome to purchase other protective gear such as eye covers and gloves, but these are some of the most common items that benefit rider comfort and safety.
Now that you know all about trike safety, we’re sure you’re looking forward to browsing models and setting up test drives! If you’re located nearby in Albany and Corvallis, Oregon we hope you’ll visit Willamette Valley Harley-Davidson for all of your trike or motorcycle needs. Not only do we offer high-quality vehicles, but helpful accessories such as riding gear and parts.