Fatigue on a bike is rarely an issue due to the constant noise from the wind, engine, and surrounding movement. However, fatigue remains one of the leading causes of fatal accidents, with little effort made to address drowsy motorists.
For car and truck drivers, the comfort of enclosed cabins, soothing sound systems, and automatic controls can make it easier to fall asleep during long journeys. While motorcyclists are generally less prone to this, there have been cases where riders dozed off. In one instance in the US, police observed a motorcycle continuing down the highway for miles before the sleeping rider eventually 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 the 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 be 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. It can avoid fatigue on a bike to some extent.
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 earplugs. 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.
By following these tips you can avoid fatigue on a bike and have a safe trip during long distance journeys.
Emma Ward
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