Stay Upright - Stay alert to stay alive

The factors that affect our ability to ride safely and smartly on the roads should be fairly obvious to most riders, but it's surprising how many of us consider these impediments as "unimportant" in our ability to control a motorcycle effectively. However insignificant some of these factors seem, they are factors nonetheless that present a danger not only to ourselves, but also to other road users.

ALCOHOL AND DRUGS
Riding a motorcycle after consuming alcohol and/or other drugs simply isn't worth the risk!Alcohol affects us physically and has a strong effect on our mental capacity and changes our perception of speed and distance.It has been estimated that 40% of all fatalities throughout Australia involve alcohol. But not just alcohol. Drugs of all kinds - legal or otherwise can be just as harmful.People using illegal drugs and then riding a motorcycle don't seem to have the same fear of getting caught as those who drink and drive. Yet the risk to themselves and other road users is similarly high.For example, the rider's fear factor may be reduced and more risks may be taken than normally would be the case. Response times become slow and decisions about braking, changing position and speed on the road may be left until the last moment.Similarly, prescription medication can also affect our riding ability. We've all seen the "don't drive or operate heavy machinery" warnings on prescription medication, but how many of us really think about what affect those pills might have on our ability to ride when we're popping them?

AWAKE = ALERT
Riding while tired can be just as dangerous. It is not that the rider falls asleep, although this can happen, but more that concentration levels fade away and you begin riding as if on auto pilot. A few kilometres pass and you can't remember them or you are passed by a vehicle you didn't realise was there! Of course, the longer the ride, the more dangerous this factor becomes.

IS YOUR MIND ROAD READY?
One of the least recognised factors in staying alert is our state of mind while riding. Personal problems, family problems or illnesses can all impact on our ability to concentrate when on the road. Just about every rider, at one time or another, has been under emotional pressure that can take the focus away from what we need to concentrate on when riding. Similarly, riding angry is another no-no for the alert motorcyclist. Anger often leads to aggression, which can affect both our judgment and concentration.

STEPS TO ALERT MOTORCYCLING
Simple rules for staying alert:
- Wear the right protective gear - excessive heat and dehydration can make you just as tired and weary as cold and rain.
- Avoid the nasties covered above - alcohol, drugs, etc.
- If you're angry or stressed, leave the bike in the garage.
- Take regular and frequent breaks, especially when on longer rides
- Avoid heavy meals
- Ensure you are well rested before riding. If you are still tired before you even start the ride, you need more sleep!

Consider these factors when planning your next ride. You'll be surprised at how much more enjoyable they can make even a simple journey.

Until next time - stay focused and alert!
Brendon Thompson
State Manager - Tasmania
Stay Upright Motorcycle Techniques