The idea of riding a side car motorcycle has been very interesting up until these days. However, some say that riding it is far different from riding an average motorcycle; and it’s true. One should have some extra knowledge with them before finally really riding it down the road. This is very important to consider to have a safe riding, especially when the weather is also in the picture.
For your information, the sidecar motorcycle appears to be not only tough but sexily classic. It is very nice to have a friend as a trip companion or a perfect lover to complete the trip. This kind of vehicle is sure more stable to ride with two people on it. On the other hand, a sidecar motorcycle also provides more luggage to the passengers.
Here, we have bundled some basic yet essentials tips for you to perform when you are going to ride a sidecar motorcycle safely in all weather.
Safety Tips for Riding Sidecar Motorcycle in all Weather
- Brake straight
Riding a sidecar motorcycle will feel and needs different treatments to those we experience riding a normal motorcycle. The first pro safe tips is to brake in a straight line. You may have known that the brakes, wheels, and the weight distribution in this kind of vehicle are very unique. When it comes to sidecar motorcycles, it is best to perform symmetrical force to distribute the weight evenly.
- Add weight
Without the weight, a sidecar motorcycle will handle and brake unpredictably. If space isn’t filled with the supposed balancing weight, you can try carrying on a couple of sandbags for the sidecar. If it is possible, you can measure good weight distribution for the motorcycle and sidecar, so the handling and braking function will work properly.
- Steering
You may have known that riding a sidecar motorcycle needs different treatments, one of them is to be performed on the steer. Sidecar motorcycles will steer differently when the rider makes a turn. For your information, the pivot point of the sidecar motorcycle steering is located in the center of the motorcycle. While the sidecar offers an asymmetrical force indeed, all one has to do is to practice turning and controlling the steering.
- Avoid two-wheel drive
If your sidecar is custom-built, it probably doesn’t have such a feature. But if it does, for example for sidecars like the Ural, there is this feature that enables two-wheel drive that will engage the motorcycle’s wheel in the back, and the sidecar’s wheel from the outer part. This function only makes handling more difficult unless you are facing dirt, mud, snow, and other uneven tracks.
- Stay in control
Last but definitely not least, learn more about how to take and stay in control. Facing different kinds of weather and road will cause some inevitable troubles to the rider, so be ready and stay focused while on the trip. Try to take practice and improve your techniques over and over again in order to be fully aware of the road and staying in the best condition while riding.