Tag Archives: road

10 steps to secure your ride

You wear a helmet, you pay attention to the road, you make sure other drivers pay attention to you—protection is the name of the game when you’re in the saddle. What about after you call it a day and put your motorcycle in park? How much care do you take to keep it protected?  

Severe weather, theft, and shoddy sheds and garages can all threaten your ride even when you’re not riding. Here are some ideas to keep your motorcycle safe and secure while it waits for your next adventure. 

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For informational purposes only and may not be applicable to all situations.

7 tire safety tips for a smooth ride

“Where the rubber meets the road” is more than just an expression. It’s the moment of truth. The time for talking is done and someone (or something) is either going to perform or fall short. For a safe, enjoyable, smooth motorcycle ride, how well your tires perform ranks right up there with your driving skills.

Just like your helmet, tires are essential safety equipment. Make sure yours are ready to grip the asphalt when it counts with these tips: 

Start off slow: Ride slowly for a few miles to let the tires warm up before accelerating and cornering normally. This is especially important in the spring and fall when morning temps can be much cooler than the afternoon. 

Watch road conditions: An older road or one covered with leaves, grass clipplings, water, or dirt offers less traction—no matter what shape your tires are in. Use caution when driving on unmaintained roadways. 

Get a feel for inflation: Overinflated tires have less road traction and amplify the effects of poor road conditions or sudden moves. Underinflated tires will make your motorcycle feel unstable.  

Check pressure again: Tire pressure should be checked before every ride, if possible, or at least weekly. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. This is especially important in hot and cold weather as temperatures can actually change your reading. 

Pressures may vary: Tire pressure isn’t one-size fits all. The recommended tire pressure may be different if you’re carrying a passenger or cargo. Remember to factor in the weight of any added accessories like a cargo bag and any saddlebag items. 

Examine the tires: Regularly check your tires’ wear, looking at wear bars and tread depth. Worn out tires can quickly lose traction. Plus, look for cuts, cracks, and embedded stones or nails which are cause for replacement. 

New tires beware: New tires can be slick! Take extra care until your tires are broken in well enough to maximize your traction. 

For informational purposes only and may not be applicable to all situations. 

7 golf cart safety tips

They’re not just for golf anymore! Golf carts can be found everywhere from retirement communities to college campuses. Some states have even passed laws allowing them to putter down public streets. But despite their lower speed, golf carts are legitimate vehicles that demand safe driving. Check out these 7 safety tips before you hit the road or the course.

  1. Check Licensing Requirements: Do you need a driver’s license to drive a golf cart? It depends on where you live. Find out what’s required in your state before getting behind the wheel.
  2. Stay Inside: Those open sides may be tempting but it’s important to keep all arms and legs inside the vehicle at all times, except when signaling. 
  3. Signal Turns Manually: Golf cart turn signals are small and hard to see. Always use hand signals to indicate you intent to turn.
  4. Don’t Overcrowd: Only carry the number of permissible passengers, which will typically be the number that you have seats and seatbelts for. No one should be sitting on the floor or someone’s lap.
  5. Yield to Pedestrians: Just like when you’re in a car, pedestrians have the right of way. Be sure to follow all the rules of the road and stop and let them cross before carrying on with your drive.
  6. Stay Sober: Alcohol can seriously impede your ability to safely operate any vehicle, including golf carts. Depending on your state, you could even receive a DUI for driving a golf cart under the influence.
  7. Consider Insurance: Golf cart insurance isn’t just a good idea for accidents, in some states it’s mandatory. Talk to your insurance agent about golf cart insurance.

For informational purposes only and may not be applicable to all situations.

Coverage is subject to policy terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions, underwriting review and approval, and may vary or not be available for all risks or in all states. Rates and discounts vary, are determined by many factors, and are subject to change. Policies are written by one of the licensed insurers of American Modern Insurance Group, Inc., including but not limited to American Modern Property and Casualty Insurance Company (CA Lic. No. 6129-1.)