While summer may seem like the perfect time for going on long motorcycle rides, it's not without its own dangers. Instead of skidding on the ice or getting stuck in the snow, you have to be careful of the heat and becoming dehydrated. If you're going to be doing a lot of riding this summer, here are a few things you should keep in mind.
Helmet laws have always been a point of contention among bikers, and during the summer, you may be very tempted to ride without one. The feel of the wind in your hair is an amazing feeling. Just be careful you don't crash. Another issue during the summer is sunburn. Riding without a helmet or a cap of any sort can leave you with a nasty sunburn on your head and face. Put on sunscreen before you ride.
Another thing to keep in mind is that while you might want to wear as little as possible to stay cool, if you crash, you'll be losing some skin. That jacket with all your biker patches on it looks cool, but it's really hot during the summer. You might still want to wear long-sleeves and a pair of pants, though, just in case you lay your bike over.
Finally, you need to always carry a few bottles of water in your saddlebags while you're riding during the heat. It's very easy to get too hot and suffer from heat stroke, especially if you're riding during the hot afternoon. Even if your water gets hot and doesn't taste that great, it will still hydrate you. Be sure to keep some water at hand during biker rallies this summer, too, and spend as much time as you can in the shade.
