Riding your motorcycle after your first crash
Posted by Howard Trott on Saturday, September 30, 2017 Under: Motorcycle Riding Skills
There comes a time in the life of every motorcyclist when he/she lost confidence after the first crash.
So what if you fell off from your motorcycle in front of other people. We all make mistakes. There is nothing to be embarrassed and most importantly, you don’t need to be afraid of riding again. You have been doing this for a long time, you can’t just give up, all because you fell off.
It is not right. You need to gain your self-confidence once again and get back on two wheels as soon as possible.
As a professional rider, I knew few techniques which can help you to gain your old confidence. The best way is to get back on the bike as soon as possible. Start off by riding short distances until you gain more confidence.
Check you’re Riding Gear
In your previous crash, is there anything damaged? A helmet, boots, or maybe you’re riding jacket. If you have some sort of doubt that it might have then changed whatever damaged in the crash. You don’t want to wear it again and go out there without complete protection. Plus, it will remind you of a previous accident.
You can ignore jackets, boots, and gloves for a time but a helmet is the only one impact type which can’t use any further. So don’t think about money and pay for your own life.
Don’t risk it
Examine Your Motorcycle
The second thing you need to consider is to check the condition of your motorcycle.
Did your bike damage in last accident?
If yes, then unlike riding gear, you don’t need to buy a new one. I know how much a motorcycle cost. But you must show it to the mechanic for damaged parts and repair them as soon as possible. If you have suffered significant injuries which impaired your physical ability then leave your cruiser or sports bike for a while and buy a lightweight and cheap motorcycle to use as a substitute until you fully recovered.
First Ride after Crash
Now it is time to ride first time after the crash. You may be nervous. But, don’t forget it was past. To feel comfortable, plan a short ride with mild traffic and beautiful weather which can give you relaxation. Don’t go back to the previous crash location, it will only hurt you.
Make sure you wear full armour, in that way you will be sure nothing harm will come to you again and you are fully protected. Face your fear alone. Don’t tag anyone with you on your ride. Otherwise, a single mistake will be embarrassing for you and instead of gaining confidence you will lose what left of it.
Basically, just take it easy. Relax! Feel the wind on your face, see beautiful scenery, and smell the nature.
Confront Your Demons
Face the truth. If you have suffered from several significant injuries then a single ride will not be enough to gain self-confidence. Just keep practicing until you are fully recovered from both physical and mental state.
Once you are, then go to the same spot where you crashed your motorcycle. Whether it was in rain, on the motorway, or maybe in heavy traffic. You need to face your demons.
Confront them. That’s the only way to restore self-confidence to ride once again no matter what.
Tags: riding after a crash motorcycle riding