One of the most common reasons for fatal accidents is fatigue. However, no real efforts have taken place to clamp down on fatigued motorists.
Monitoring your level of fatigue is crucial. Falling asleep on a motorbike is not possible, thanks to the noise of the wind, engine and everything moving along with you.
However, fatigue is a problem for car and truck drivers. The comfortable cabins, soothing sound system, automatic controls etc. makes falling asleep on longer journeys much easier.
Still, some motorbike riders have been reported to fall asleep. In the US, police noticed a bike that kept going along the highway for a couple of miles before the sleeping driver fell off.
Here are 10 tips to stay active while you are riding a bike.
Choose interesting routes
Rather than staying on the highway, it’s better to choose winding routes. Winding routes require mental concentration, gear work, steering and use of brakes. One should also avoid cruise control on confusing roads.
Driving plan
Planning the route is not enough; plan your stops as well. Driving in a group means that you have to keep up the same energy and stamina levels as the other members, so decide on your stops to build your stamina and go with the rhythm.
Sleeping plan
Before going on a ride, make sure you get adequate sleep the night before. Also do not leave too early in the morning. If the ride is scheduled to take several days, suggest to the other group members that no-one should drink or stay up till morning beforehand.
Food plan
Drink water throughout the day. Enough water prevents dehydration brought about by the wind. Dehydration can cause dizziness. Water is best, as you will still sleepy if you just stick to sugary drinks, caffeine and alcohol. Have smaller meals and avoid carbohydrates. Heavy foods require longer digestion and slow the body down.
Exercise
When you stop, do some walking or other light exercise along the street. Do not sit for ages, as you have already been sitting while on the bike. By doing some light exercise, you relax your muscles and stay alert.
Listen
Listening to soothing music on a bike makes one sleepy. So opt for loud music instead. Don’t forget to wear a full-face helmet and ear plugs. If you’re on an organized bike-ride; you can get communication systems to allow you to talk with other riders as you ride.
Riding in large or small group
If you are riding in a small group, it will be easy for members to take turns leading each other. Riding in a big group can make one lose concentration, so take care.
Emma Ward
Latest posts by Emma Ward (see all)
- A Guide to Alternative Car Fuels – [Infographic] - May 3, 2016
- The 3 Main Car Finance Options and How to Choose the Best One for You - April 5, 2016
- Behind the Wheel – How to Dress for an Easy Drive - March 3, 2016
