Spring is here, which means it’s officially time to take out the motorcycles (finally!). From insurance to maintenance, are you ready to hit the road safely? Here are four tips so you can ride with peace of mind!
First, let’s talk about insurance. Regardless of whether your motorcycle is brand new or not, it must have the minimum amount of civil liability coverage before you take it out for a spin (just like a car).
Since the riding season is relatively short, some motorcyclists plan short trips outside the province to make the most of it. If you are planning to do the same this summer, government measures permitting, it’s important to let your broker know.
Finally, it’s vital to make sure you have the right coverage for your accessories and equipment based on their value. In the event of an accident, you’ll want to get your motorcycle back quickly in its original state!
Now that your insurance has been sorted out, are you ready to hit the road? Not quite. For your safety, it’s important to keep your motorcycle regularly maintained, particularly at the start of the season. Checking your fluids, tire pressure and tread wear is a crucial step to ensure you have a safe and happy summer.
Before you officially get underway, don’t forget to have a small toolkit on hand in case of minor breakdowns. Additionally, some insurers offer roadside assistance. This can always come in handy in an emergency. If you are going on a longer trip, you may also want to consider bringing an emergency kit. Read our article on this topic!
The temperature plays a key role when it comes to safety. It’s important to dress appropriately for the weather forecast and, most importantly, to adjust your driving accordingly. Slippery roads, heavy winds, low visibility, rain and poorly executed manoeuvres are all factors that can cause a skid and injure both new and seasoned drivers.
A loss of control is much more dangerous – or even fatal – on two wheels than in a car. That’s why it’s important to have the right protection. Currently, the only equipment you are required to wear is a protective helmet, which must comply with recognized manufacturing standards. Visit the SPVM website to make sure your helmet is up to standard.
You should also make sure to wear the proper attire. Falling off in a t-shirt… ouch! It’s better to ride with added protection, such as a leather jacket on colder days or a mesh jacket for hotter weather. There are various types of gear and outerwear that are specifically designed for motorcycle riding. A brief buyer’s guide is available from the SAAQ to help you choose the right equipment for you.
The weather is good, it’s warm out and the summer holidays are just around the corner? Planning to take a little road trip through our beautiful province? The key to a hassle-free trip is being prepared!
One last bit of advice: plan your itinerary down to the last detail. Locate repair shops and gas stations along your route to avoid running out of gas or experiencing a breakdown that could spoil your getaway. Identify places to rest for the night. To choose your destination and discover all the circuit options in a specific region, drop by a bookstore to pick up a moto guide or visit the Motorcycling Quebec website.
Remember that you can contact your Lareau broker anytime to make sure you have the right coverage for your motorcycle. Drive safely and enjoy your time on the road. Happy riding season, motorcyclists!
