The post Motorcycle Lane Splitting: What Is It & Should You Do It? appeared first on Susquehanna Valley Harley Davidson.
]]>You’re faced with a complicated decision each day when you head out on the open road. Will you lane split on your motorcycle or share the same space as traditional vehicles? The concept of lane splitting is a popular topic across motorcycle shops and online forums, but most states prohibit this action.
So what is lane splitting, and should you do it?
Lane splitting is the process of riding a motorcycle in the same lane between rows of moving or stationary vehicles. The action can take place across divided and undivided streets, roads and major highways. This definition is accompanied by a number of different variations, as California is currently the only state to allow lane splitting.
This riding activity may be efficient for some riders, but whether or not you should lane split is going to depend on where you live. California is the only state in the country to recognize lane splitting, but the following states do not specifically prohibit it:
If you live in one of the locations where lane splitting is not specifically prohibited, you don’t necessarily get a free pass. Just because there’s no legislation against lane splitting in certain states doesn’t mean you won’t get in trouble. After all, California permits lane splitting, but riders are not required to ride this way.
Riders either love or fear lane splitting. If not done correctly, this practice quickly becomes dangerous for riders and other vehicles on the road. Additionally, it’s up to local Highway Patrol to determine if your actions are unsafe, so you can still get a ticket for lane splitting even if it’s technically not “illegal” in a given state.
Lane splitting is drastically different from lane filtering or lane sharing alongside other riders. If you’re skeptical about the practice, you shouldn’t try it.
The future of lane splitting is somewhat uncertain. Even though the activity is legal in the state of California, legislators across the country are unsuccessful in pushing bills for approval. There are two sides to the argument on lane splitting, but some riders see a number of benefits for the operation, if it were legal across the country.
Riders often see lane splitting as a way to keep motorcyclists safe from rear-end collisions. If it’s done responsibly at recommended speeds, it’s possible that lane splitting could lessen traffic congestion, as fewer riders would be in front or directly behind other vehicles.
California drivers are getting used to the concept of motorcycle lane splitting, but remember not to engage in this practice unless you live there.
Susquehanna Valley Harley-Davidson does not advocate lane splitting, as we’re a Pennsylvania-based dealer. Lane splitting outside of California is extremely dangerous, as drivers and other riders are not prepared for it. This activity has the potential to cause drivers to overreact because something on the road is out of the ordinary.
Until further notice, avoid lane splitting outside of California.
New to motorcycles or simply seeking out a new ride? Susquehanna Valley Harley-Davidson wants to help! Be sure to check out our new bike inventory listings and schedule a test ride at our location today.
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]]>The post Do Motorcycle Helmets Expire? appeared first on Susquehanna Valley Harley Davidson.
]]>Although helmets are drastically different than perishable foods, they expire based on use and existence. To make things simple, let’s take a look at the main sections of your average motorcycle helmet:
What part of your helmet expires? Aside from motorcycle helmet damage from accidents, your helmet has a limited lifespan because the EPS foam naturally loses shape. The outer shell is the only component keeping the filler foam from warping or falling apart.
Over time, your properly fitting helmet sees gradual wear and tear. This comes from activity such as tossing your helmet in your bag, temperature changes or general use. Because of this, the fill material becomes less effective in protecting you from danger.
Anytime you drop your helmet or it takes an unexpected hit, inspect it. Even if your helmet doesn’t take physical damage, polystyrene (protective filling) biodegrades. Factors such as how often you use your helmet, what outdoor elements you ride in, and where you store your gear will speed up this aging process.
Our advice? If you choose to wear a helmet, Susquehanna Valley Harley-Davidson recommends monitoring your helmet like a timer. Protecting yourself is essential when riding, so, best practice is to replace your helmet every three to five years. In an emergency, the right helmet can help protect you no matter what your experience level is.
It might seem like common knowledge, but even your most experienced riders have a go-to helmet and style. No matter how long you are riding, prepare for the unexpected. A helmet can be just as important as your Harley-Davidson in terms of getting you from point A to point B.
Take helmet fitment and condition as a chance to purchase new gear for you and your bike. Nothing is more exciting than getting to add new accessories to fuel your passion! If you are looking to expand on your current setup, be sure to stop by Susquehanna Valley Harley-Davidson!
Feel free to visit our location to schedule a test ride, view new inventory and pre-owned inventory and speak to some fellow riders. Susquehanna Valley Harley-Davidson wants to be your guide to safe and informed cruising on the open road.
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]]>The post Fitting A Motorcycle Helmet appeared first on Susquehanna Valley Harley Davidson.
]]>If you currently wear a motorcycle helmet, when was the last time you checked that it fit properly? It’s simple to find the right fit or replacement if it has been a few years since your last helmet purchase. If you are just starting out with Harley-Davidson bikes, knowing what it takes to find the best helmet fit is a skill that will last you a lifetime.
Whether it is time to purchase your first helmet or you are looking for a replacement, the first step in this process is to measure around the widest part of your head. Typically, this will be just above where your eyebrows are positioned on your face. Each helmet will offer its own set of sizes based on measurements, but this is an easy process to follow.
Nothing is worse than a fit that is too tight or too loose — this is a huge safety issue for any rider! Your helmet will only serve you well in an emergency if it fits properly.
Luckily, doing this basic measurement in inches or centimeters will assist you in the purchase of any DOT-regulated helmet style. With various styles to choose from, the best way to find the proper fit is to actually try them on.
Now that you have a measurement, follow these few steps to determine if you are experiencing a correct helmet fitment:
How to Make a Motorcycle Helmet Fit Better
When fitting for a helmet, make sure to get rid of anything interfering with your face and head. The helmet needs to hug and protect all parts of your head and skull. Follow these tips when trying on any helmets:
If finding the proper size and style of helmet is confusing, feel free to stop by Susquehanna Valley Harley-Davidson to speak to one of our experienced riders. Safety comes first when riding, and you must have the proper fitment.
If you or someone you know is in search of a Harley-Davidson Motorcycle, make sure to schedule a test ride with us! We carry a vast selection of new and used bikes, and we would love to get you a pricing quote!
Here at Susquehanna Valley Harley-Davidson, it’s all about the journey, not the destination. Cruise down the open road to our shop today!
The post Fitting A Motorcycle Helmet appeared first on Susquehanna Valley Harley Davidson.
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