Stay Safe Out There: Riding Your Motorcycle In Extreme Heat 

Y’all, it’s hot. And if you just can’t take another minute cooped up indoors, there’s one great way to make your own breeze – riding your motorcycle through our great state of South Carolina. But in heat like this, riding your motorcycle can be dangerous – even deadly. The two biggest dangers when riding a motorcycle are dehydration and heat exhaustion, and being on a bike makes you particularly susceptible to both. Make sure when you head out for some two-wheeled adventure, you keep these things in mind to keep yourself safer in the heat. 

Is your motorcycle insurance ready for the open road? 

Motorcycle insurance is critical to not only your safety and those on the road with you, but for your peace of mind so you can enjoy your ride. If you want to make sure that your motorcycle insurance coverage is enough to keep you covered, give Edwards Insurance Agency in Taylors, S.C a call today! 

1. Stay hydrated 

Dehydration is a huge danger for motorcyclists riding in extreme heat. You may be profusely sweating and not even notice, because the rushing air from riding your bike causes your sweat to evaporate nearly instantly.  According to the CDC, when working or riding in the heat, the human body needs 8 oz. of water every 15-20 minutes. While you may not want to stop every 20 minutes to take a water break, what you can do is set an alarm to stop every few miles and chug a bottle of water to rehydrate. Remember – if you feel thirsty, your body is already dehydrated! Dehydration can lead to fatigue and cognitive difficulties, which could put you at a greater risk of an accident and a motorcycle insurance claim (or worse). Drink up! 

2. Stay away from caffeine 

One of the first signs of dehydration is fatigue. This is a sign that you should pay attention to, not cover up with coffee or energy drinks. If you’re riding and feel tired, pull over and take a water break. Stay off your bike until you are fully rehydrated and feel better. 

3. Take a break in the hottest part of the day 

The hours between noon and 3 p.m. tend to be the hottest parts of the day. If you can, plan to take a long lunch break (in the shade!) during the hottest hours of the day. This is a good time to focus on rehydrating, too. Drink as much as you can while you’re stopped, so when temps drop, you can get back on the road with plenty of hydration and energy. 

4. Watch out for tar snakes 

High heat can cause the tar in asphalt to soften and melt, creating “tar snakes” on the top of the road that are slick and can quickly lead to an accident and a claim on your motorcycle insurance policy. When it’s very hot out, ride with caution, especially when you see pavement patches in the road. 

5. Use cooling gear 

Motorcycle gear has come a long way! There are so many options other than hot black leather when it comes to motorcycle gear. Special cooling vests, wristbands and collars can help keep you cool for hours, making for a much more enjoyable ride.