Now that winter has arrived and the temperatures have dropped considerably, it is important that scooter owners take the necessary precautions to ensure they are safe when going out for a ride. Scooters are a great mode of transportation, as not only are they affordable and easy to maintain, but they are also much more environmentally friendly.
But of course, unlike when driving a car, when riding a scooter, you only have two wheels on the road, and therefore you need to be more careful about the conditions around you. So, to make the transition into winter easier for all scooter owners, we have put together our top winter riding tips.
Wear Waterproof Clothing
One of the best tips we can give you for the winter season of scooter riding is wearing waterproof clothing every time you go out riding. While it may seem like a nice day out, the winter months can be unpredictable, so we would recommend you always have your waterproof safety gear with you just in case the weather should turn. Not only is wearing waterproof clothing important if you want to avoid getting soaked, but by being comfortable while you are riding, you can focus your attention on the road and avoid any distractions which could result in an accident.
Make Sure You Are Seen
As we all know, it gets dark outside a lot earlier during the winter. So, even if you can usually ride home from work in the safety of daylight throughout summer, the winter nights arriving often means that visibility is not as clear. Therefore, we recommend that you always check that you are using your lights and even apply reflective strips to your scooter and clothing to help you stand out to others on the road during bad weather and poor visibility.
Get Your Scooter Checked Regularly
Just like how car drivers get their vehicles checked at least once a year for their MOT, you should ensure that you get your scooter checked regularly as well. While you can get your scooter checked throughout the year, we always recommend getting it prepared for the winter. You may find that your scooter is need of a service or some parts need to be replaced. While this may sound like an inconvenience, you can find all the information you need, along with servicing at bmgscooters.com.
Check the Weather and Road Conditions Before Riding
Whether you have recently had your scooter checked, and you have all the equipment you need to keep yourself safe while riding, you should be sure to check the weather and road conditions before each scooter ride you go on. This is important as you don’t want to be caught out in the rain since it can make your journey considerably riskier. Always check before you go out on your scooter and be prepared to stay home if necessary.
While having your own scooter is a great way to get around, it is also crucial that you think about the impact that winter can have, not only on your ride, but also on your scooter and the conditions your ride may be faced with.