Indian summer is right around the corner, and it’s high time to prepare for the scorching heat, dry wind and annoying heat waves. As harsh as summers are for everyone, if you are a bike rider, then make sure to pull your socks up before taking your steel horse out during the day. Whether you are planning a quick drive to your nearby mall or a long road trip with your buddies, some smart habits and tips will help you beat this summer heat with ease.
Keep reading to learn some smart, interesting and unique tips to keep you safe and grooving while the sun beats down on you.
1. Stay Hydrated – Chug! Chug! Chug!
Did you know that on average, a bike rider during peak summer days can lose up to 1.5 litres of water from their body every hour? Staying hydrated in this 50 degrees of Indian summer should be like breathing to you. Lack of hydration can cause eye and skin irritation, along with dizziness and fatigue. Carry a couple of water bottles with you and refill them with fresh water every chance you get. You can either carry an insulated bottle or wrap it with a wet cloth to keep the water refreshing and cool.
2. Wear the Right Gear – Ventilation is Key
While you may incline to half-sleeved shirts and shorts for a breezy summer outfit, choosing full sleeves clothes will keep you protected from UV rays. With the sun shining hard, especially during the hours around 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the hot wind hitting your skin can cause scorching marks and redness.
- Opt for pastel shades and well-ventilated clothes.
- Light and airy fabrics such as cotton and linen can be a blessing.
- Full-face helmet with functional side vents.
- Summer gloves to ensure proper grip during sweating.
3. Take Regular Breaks – Rest and Relax
Every rider loves to cruise through his journey with as few stops as possible. In severe weather, it’s advisable to make brief excursions and take regular pauses every 90-120 minutes to maintain your energy levels and minimise fatigue accumulation. In dry winds, arid regions can kick up significant dust that may lead to vision difficulties and respiratory problems. So, take breaks and splash your face with water to keep going like a champ.
4. Plan Like a Pro – Get Your Checklist Out
Riding in summer along with your friends is a thrill of its own. But, being smart and understanding the dangers is crucial to prevent any unforeseen circumstances.
- If going for a short trip, avoid riding between noon and 3 p.m.
- For longer trips, start riding early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Mark your stops for the day before your journey.
- Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to save your skin from getting blistered by the UV rays all day long.
5. Keep Your Bike Summer Ready
Just like you, the extremely high temperature can be harmful to your mighty steel horse. The long drives in high temperatures can cause engine issues, so make sure to get it checked and verified before releasing the clutch. Similarly, do a thorough safety check for tyres, battery levels, and electrical systems. Heat can expand rubber, causing overinflation. When stopping for breaks, park your bike under shade to avoid direct sunlight. For a pro tip, either splash a little water or wipe your bike seat with a moist cloth before hopping on it again.
6. Adjust Your Riding Style – Fix Your Posture
Sit straight and maintain a good distance from the bike handles to avoid leaning on the handle. This can cause all your body weight to push on your shoulders and arms, causing damage over time. Opt for bikes with adjustable hand levers and seats, such as the BMW F 900 XR, to customise for long trips. When travelling in groups, keep ample safety distance to avoid a collision or slowing others down. Talking about slowing, avoid aggressive acceleration and brakes, as it can cause you to lose your balance.
Wrapping Up
Be it snowy peaks, lush green valleys or the extreme summer of Indian streets, riding your motorbike is a passion that knows no boundaries. However, including safety habits and smart planning can help you tackle all the challenges of summer with ease. From wearing the right gear and staying hydrated all day long to driving a summer-friendly bike such as a Kawasaki or a BMW motorcycle, riding your steel horse in summer can be a valuable experience. Stay safe, and ride safe!
As the editor of the blog, She curate insightful content that sparks curiosity and fosters learning. With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, she strive to bring diverse perspectives and engaging narratives to readers, ensuring every piece informs, inspires, and enriches.
