A MOTORCYCLE safety instructor has revealed what riders should wear while on congested roads - and all black may not be the way to go. In addition, a $40 Amazon product can make sudden weather changes safer and more comfortable. Kyle Haggmark, a tenured safety instructor with Golden State Moto, a CHP-sanctioned course in various parts of California, teaches students earning their motorcycle license the basics of riding.
Once a rider finishes the course, the certificate negates the need to take the riding test at the DMV. The three-day course covers how to lean into turns and make basic defensive maneuvers with eight hours of rider training in the seat of a motorcycle. Haggmark has been an instructor with Golden State Moto for 12 years and runs the company's branch in Salinas, California.
Read More about Motorcycles However, he's been riding a motorcycle ever since he was a teenager. In an exclusive interview with The U.S.
Sun, Haggmark reveals the gear he suggests to his students as part of the course. California experiences rapid and sudden weather changes, especially along the coast. While a ride may start with beautiful blue skies, it could suddenly turn gray and start raining.
Most read in Motors Therefore, Haggmark suggests riders should carry with them at all times. "Riders can be caught out in inclement weather at any time," said Haggmark. "Rainsuits either 1 or two pieces, are light and can crush down to fitting in a very small bag.
It's always a good idea to carry one with you either in a bag, under the tail, or in a backpack." Rainsuits can vary in price depending on the brand, though they typically range from $40 to $60. Waterproof suits are important while riding in the rain, as drenched clothes can rapidly drop a rider's body temperature.
The colder a rider gets, the less effective they are at riding - and the risk for hypothermia increases, depending on the ambient temperature. Haggmark always has one on his motorcycle, and it's come in handy countless times. Kyle Haggmark, a long-time motorcycle rider and certified riding instructor, gave The U.
S. Sun a few tips on how to make riding safer and more comfortable. Wear bright colors.
It may not be as stylish, but the brighter the color of your gear, the easier it is for drivers to see you. Bonus points for reflective material. Always carry a rain suit.
Many are under $60, come in two pieces, and can fold up in a bag to be kept in a saddle bag, backpack, or tucked under the tail of the motorcycle. Prepare for all seasons, especially for long-distance rides. Keep up on maintenance - regularly evaluate the tires, keep up on oil changes, and keep the brakes prepared for regular bleeding.
If applicable, make sure the cooling system is regularly maintained. Never skimp on safety gear. Even in hot weather, it's important to wear safety gear.
"I'd rather be toasty, warm, and dry, than cold, wet, and miserable," he said. A waterproof rain suit that has reflective material and bright colors, like this product for $39.99 , can help keep you dry and visible to drivers, which ties into Haggmark's next top tip.
In most motorcycle accidents involving a car hitting a motorcycle, the number one complaint was the driver being unable to see the rider. Read More on The US Sun "Remember the first thing out of a person's mouth when there's an accident is, 'I didn't see you!'" Haggmark said. "Wear bright colors and retro-reflective effects.
Nobody will win a fashion contest wearing highlighter yellow or hot pink , but people will definitely notice you.".
