Motorcycle enthusiasts love open roads where they can accelerate and ride their motorcycles safely. However, roads pose extreme hazards to motorcyclists, with other road users like trucks, vans, passenger cars, and commercial motor vehicle drivers creating multiple risks. Fortunately, motorcyclists can take responsibility for their safety by choosing the right size and type of motorcycle.
Typically, the safest type of motorcycle you can ride depends on how well you can handle it on the road. But if someone else caused your injuries after a motorcycle accident, working with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can help you pursue compensation. At Pacific West Injury Law, we can help you understand your legal options and represent you fully when seeking compensation after a motorcycle accident.
The Dangers of All Types of Motorcycles
According to the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS), motorcyclists are 27 times more likely to die than any other road user. With the nature of the motorcycle being among the leading reasons for these deaths, motorcyclists need to consider choosing safe motorbikes. That said, here are some major safety concerns posed by different types of motorcycles:
- Slimmer, smaller profiles and limited headlights make motorcycles more difficult to spot than other vehicles on the road.
- Two-wheeled structure makes motorcycles less stable during emergency maneuvers like braking and swerving.
- Standard motorcycle instability often increases with speed, for instance, a shaking front end when the motorcycle is at high speed.
- Inadequate rider training, particularly that underestimates motorcycle operations compared to a car.
- Motorcycles lack protective features such as airbags and seatbelts, exposing the ride to more damage.
- Inability to balance motorcycles during stops, primarily motorcyclists riding large bikes
Types of Motorcycles for Insured Safety
When it comes to safety, motorcycles are designed differently, meaning that some can be more dangerous to ride than others. While riders often consider their preferences and experience levels when choosing a motorbike, safety is a critical aspect to consider. Some common types of motorcycles to get for insured safety include:
Standard Motorcycles
Standard motorcycles are the top choice for most motorcyclists, particularly inexperienced or hobby riders. These bikes include mid-sized twin engines for more power and modern styling that gives the bike a more sophisticated look. Unlike most motorcycle types, standard motorbikes are smooth and feature a sporty look.
Cruiser Motorcycles
Cruiser motorcycles offer a cozy seating position and mid-forward foot control for a better riding experience. Commonly referred to as pirate bikes, these motorcycles have twin engines that power these massive, heavy motorbikes. Although cruise motorcycles were not designed for speed or the most powerful bikes, they offer extreme comfort, especially when riding longer distances.
Dirt Bikes and Dual Sport Motorcycles
Dirt bikes are small and lightweight vehicles featuring a single-cylinder motor and contorted tires ideal for off-road riding. However, since dirt bikes are unsuitable for riding on the streets, dual-sport motorcycles act as an alternative. Dual sport motorcycles are a type of dirt bike with less-powerful motors for fewer emissions and tires suited for the roadway.
Adventure Bikes
Adventure bikes are dirt bikes mainly designed for long-distance travel, featuring long-travel suspensions, luggage slots, upright riding position, and dual-sport tires. These make adventure bikes more comfortable and ideal for motorcycle enthusiasts. It is also among the safest motorcycle due to its size and shape.
Touring Motorcycles
These are large and heavy bikes with features that make the rider comfortable throughout the journey. Typical features of touring motorcycles include wind protection, adequate seating space for two people, and ample storage space. This makes touring motorcycles suitable for long-distance rides, with safety priority.
Superbikes and Supersport Motorcycles
If you prefer motorcycles meant for speed, superbikes and supersport motorbikes come in handy with safety concerns in mind. Despite being racing bikes, they are safe motorcycles designed for public roads, although they require adequate experience to facilitate crouched or tucked riding positions. Also called crotch rockets, superbikes involve motorcycles within the 1,000cc class, while supersport motorcycles include bikes in the 600cc class.
Naked Motorcycles
Commonly referred to as a street fighter, the naked motorcycle is a type of sportbike that features more contented ergonomics. These motorcycles offer power similar to a sportbike but are primarily used for daily commuting rather than for street racing.
Tips for Choosing the Safest Type of Motorcycle
Generally, the safest type of motorcycle is one that you can handle without difficulty. To help you choose the best motorcycle regarding safety, here are some tips to get you started:
- Consider your experience level: If you are an inexperienced rider, consider more miniature power motorcycles, such as standard bikes. On the other hand, cruisers can be an excellent option for those who desire large, heavy motorcycles.
- Evaluate your strength: Balancing a stopped bike is a vital facet of safely riding a motorcycle. This involves placing both feet on the ground to help keep the motorbike balanced.
- Check your height: Height is essential in keeping the motorcycle balanced, mainly in placing your feet on the ground and reaching hand controls.
- Engine size vs. power: Engine size does not often define how powerful the bike can be. For instance, a standard bike with a 600cc engine will have less power compared to a 600cc engine in a sports motorcycle.
- Consider your usage: Suppose you need a commuting motorcycle; you do not need a large, powerful engine. Instead, consider choosing a standard bike.
Injured in a Motorcycle Accident? Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
While you have control in choosing a motorcycle that suits your strength, experience level, and size, it is challenging to control several hazards when riding. Other motorists on the road may hit you due to distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence. Fortunately, Nevada law allows you to seek compensation if you were injured in a motorcycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence.
At Pacific West Injury Law, our experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can help determine the at-fault party and pursue compensation. Contact us to schedule your free case evaluation with our legal team today.
