If you’re anything like me, then you’ll agree that the best thing about motorcycle commuting is that it adds at least two extra motorcycle rides to your day. Plus, it is cheaper than a car, and gives you the option to squeeze in a quick head-clearing ride in your lunch hour!

That said, riding to and from work on a motorcycle can be demanding. Between rush-hour traffic, freeways at a standstill, hectic city streets and trying to find a park, it can be a lot to contend with. Additionally, it increases the chances of having to deal with flat tires, accidentally running out of fuel, bad weather, the occasional heart-stopping close call, and unfortunately accidents, too.

With all of this in mind, I find it reassuring to feel prepared, think ahead and take the task of getting to and from work safely as seriously as I can, and I hope you will, too.

So, with all of that in mind, here are my top 10 tips for safely and enjoyably commuting to work on your motorcycle.

1. Get Super Visible

In today’s highly distracted, digitally-obsessed world, you can’t afford to assume that everyone’s eyes are firmly on the road, so commuting to work is not the time to prioritize looking cool in your all-black leathers and helmet. As much as I love my leisure motorbike gear, I always go for fluro when I’m commuting. Fluorescent colors don’t ever occur organically in nature, so they are the best thing to wear to stay visible and quick to catch a driver’s eye.

2. Protect Yourself Fully

While it may seem like a hassle, commuting does increase your risks of being involved in a collision of some kind, so it pays to take your protection seriously to minimize any damage caused. I always adhere to the ATGATT rule (All The Gear, All The Time) rule, no matter how lazy I’m feeling. Wear a full-face helmet, armored pants, and jacket, boots, and gloves.  Alternatively, you could go with a one-piece riding suit—one designed to be worn over your work clothes.

Another way to protect yourself is by getting the proper insurance coverage. Insurance will protect you financially in the event of an accident. Use an online motorcycle insurance comparison tool to find the best coverage for your particular bike and situation.

3. Get a Flip-Lid

Every motorcycle commuter needs to wear a helmet with full coverage for maximum protection. That said, the added convenience of one that features a quick-release flip-up option is a game-changer. I love the ease with which I can easily flip up/raise the chin bar and talk to a gas station attendant or toll-taker, without having to remove a full helmet.

4. Get The Right Bike

If you are in the market for purchasing a bike with commuting in mind, I highly recommend getting one with a modern suspension and ABS-equipped brakes. Motorcycles are manufactured to be so much more capable and responsive these days. Considering aspects like mid-range power, a comfortable seating position, and some decent wind protection will make your commute more comfortable and a lot safer.

5. Invest in hard luggage

You’ll inevitably need to transport some items to and from work – lunch, a laptop, shoes, etc.— and some lockable, hard-sided luggage is the way to go. It will keep your stuff safe from thieves and protected from the weather.

6. Cover your brakes

By keeping two fingers hovering over your brake lever at all times, you have a greater chance of reacting less aggressively when you need to brake. Overreacting and grabbing the brake lever too hard and fast can cause your front wheel to lock up, which is a scary feeling, trust me. You should also practice using both front and back brakes in unison for the instances that may require full braking power.

7. Stay in shape

Being in physically good shape will make commuting on a motorbike easier and more enjoyable, but I’m actually referring to keeping your bike in good shape. Regular maintenance, including weekly tire-pressure checks and oil checks during every fueling up with help to ensure that your commuting remains safe and reliable. Regularly check that your headlights, horn, brake lights, and signals are working well, too, as well as staying on top of other maintenance items such as brake pad thickness, chain tension, and lubrication, etc.

8. Stay Calm and Alert

You can’t afford to let anger, impatience, or cockiness get the better of you when you’re surrounded by cars and trucks that weigh a tonne. I’ve seen far too many close calls that were clearly the result of hot-headed emotions getting the better of a rider. Stay calm but on high alert, continuously scanning ahead and anticipating what might occur and how you can best handle it. Stay out of blind spots and keep your mind on the road.

9. Vary Your Route

A few years ago, I was commuting along the same highway day in, day out, and my love of motorcycle riding began to diminish—until it occurred to me that the monotony of my commuting route was the real culprit. As soon as I changed it up, took some back roads, and varied my route, I felt refreshed. Changing it up stimulates your brain, shifts your perspective, and is well worth it, even if some routes increase your commute time.

10 Don’t Tailgate

To the best possible degree, maintain a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front. Also, position yourself in the right or left portion of the lane to give yourself an easy escape route. It can be easy to find yourself tucked closely behind the bumper of the car in front of you, but it’s just not smart riding, so stay back. The Motorcycle Safety Lawyers reiterate this, recommending that you give yourself extra room in front of your bike when being tailgated in case you are forced to react quickly.

Final thoughts

Adding so much more riding to your week by commuting on your motorcycle is great for any riding enthusiast, but it does come with its challenges and additional risks. Enjoy it fully, but stay alert and ride smart.