Undoubtedly, the best way to get to work is on two wheels. From slicing through traffic to grasping at the last few moments of pleasure before sitting down to the daily grind, commuting by bike is pretty much the best part of the working day.
The benefits of riding a motorbike to work far outweigh those of our four wheeled friends. From saving money on petrol and cutting down drive times to easier parking and the pure enjoyment of taking to the road on two wheels.
Thinking of taking the plunge and begin commuting by motorbike? Take a look at these top tips for commuting by motorbike and start your working day happy.
Get The Right Gear
Commuting by motorbike to work is a commitment to riding in weather that is, sometimes, less than perfect. Pure leisure riders have the perk of cherry picking rides for the most ideal conditions, commuters don't have that privilege. There's going to be rain, wind, bright sunlight, heat and everything in between.
Choose an appropriate base layer and make sure your gear is waterproof! In the UK especially, torrential downpours can come at any time of day and any time of year. There's nothing worse than arriving to work soaked to the bone, so make sure you're dressing wisely!
Getting the right gear for commuting can be an expensive endeavor. Luckily, we've put together a commuter-friendly bundle with everything you need to stay safe and secure while commuting by motorbike! Check it out here.
Choose Your Bike Wisely
As fun as it is blasting round country bends on an S1000RR or an R1, consider an alternative when you're traipsing the morning commute. Choosing something with an upright position can save your back, while something with an economic engine will save your wallet.
Does your bike have space for luggage? A comfortable seat? ABS? Traction control? These are all things to be considered when choosing a motorbike for commuting.
Ride Defensively
Commuting goes hand in hand with traffic, unfortunately, but the benefits of a motorbike being able to filter means you can leave drivers behind you as you slip and slide through standstill traffic. However, be wary of drivers doing the unexpected. Although illegal, drivers are still partial to checking their phones while driving, distracting them from noticing a bike sliding up behind them and filtering past.
Ride as though you're invisible and always be prepared for a car to do something you wouldn't normally expect. Wearing Hi-Vis and anticipating moves can all help you ride defensively while commuting by motorbike.
Master Slow Riding
Love it or hate it, slow riding is essential when commuting by motorbike. Maneuvering through traffic or crawling to a stop, slow riding can make your ride in smoother, safer and more fuel efficient.
Keep Spare Clothes at Work
As we know, the UK is pre-disposed to a smattering of rain from time to time. Keeping your work clothes at the office can minimise the amount of luggage you're trekking around and can protect your professional wear from the elements.
Spare kit is also a good idea to have on hand - namely gloves and socks!
Pack Smart
The working day often requires more items and equipment than a leisure ride so the temptation to load up with unnecessary work artifacts will be strong. If you've only got a rucksack, think of the weight over a prolonged period of time on your back - consider luggage or a top box, but be careful of overloading or throwing the centre of balance off.
Enjoy Commuting by Motorbike!
You spend half of your life slaving away to your job, find joy where you can! Hopping on two wheels to get to work is one of the easiest ways to start and end the day right. There's not much that compares to the feeling of riding a bike, much more pleasure than sat in traffic in a car, staring wistfully out of the window.
Remember, it's all about the fun, but safety is an important factor. Don't speed just because you can, play it carefully, anticipate unexpected moves and ride to your ability.