Estimated read time: 5-6 minutes
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For as long as there have been motorcycles, there have been misconceptions about motorcycles. Some are mundane, but others are downright dangerous, which is why Utah's most trusted local source for new and used motorcycles is here to clear things up.
1. Helmets make riding more dangerous
One of the most common motorcycle myths is also one of the most dangerous. Proponents of the harmful helmet theory claim that helmets cause more neck injuries during crashes due to their weight. They also claim helmets reduce a rider's field of vision and make it harder to see and hear what's happening on the road. While these might sound like convincing arguments, the numbers and science don't back them up.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 25,000 lives have been saved by helmets since 2002. That's because Department of Transportation-approved helmets reduce neck injuries by absorbing energy during crashes. Helmets don't significantly reduce a rider's field of vision, either. Most crashes occur in the field of vision provided, where the helmet's visor allows riders to see more clearly by blocking wind and debris.
When shopping for a helmet, ignore motorcycle helmet myths, find a comfortable and secure fit and make sure the helmet is DOT-approved. As always, you should use discretion when buying used safety equipment.
2. Leather is just a fashion statement
Does wearing leather make you look cooler on your bike? Duh. But that's not the only reason riders wear it. Apart from adding a few points on the style scale, leather also offers protection. After all, what would you rather be wearing when sliding on the pavement, a T-shirt or a sturdy leather jacket? You'll take the leather jacket 10 times out of 10. That's why riders not only wear leather jackets, but often wear leather chaps too. Other benefits of leather include durable water resistance and added warmth in cold, windy weather. Leather jackets also make it easy for riders to add patches, because even though it's not all about the fashion, there's no harm in looking good.
3. Loud pipes save lives
The louder you are, the more people will hear you coming and the safer you'll be on the road, right? Not exactly. Once again "deafening noise" and "safety" remain at odds. Your modified pipes might be making more noise, but they're sending it backwards, which will have little effect on the cars merging just ahead or just beside you. Loud pipes might even be more dangerous — riders with modified exhaust systems crash slightly more often than those without them. More effective safety methods include wearing a brightly colored helmet or jacket and installing a better horn.
4. You should buy your dream bike first
You're gonna learn to ride anyway. Why not buy the motorcycle you've wanted since you were a little kid listening to "Born To Be Wild" on your bicycle? Because you have no idea what you're doing, that's why. Not only are "dream bikes" usually too powerful for beginners, but newbies will often accrue a few dents along the way too. Don't worry — that doesn't mean you'll crash. More likely, you'll drop your bike while learning to ride at slower speeds. Those drops will be less painful the smaller the financial and emotional price tag. Beginners are better off buying a solid yet affordable bike and spending more money on the safety equipment that'll follow them from bike to bike.
5. Having a bell on your bike will ward off-road gremlins
Gremlin Bells have long been a good luck charm in the motorcycle community. The idea is that by hanging off riders' bikes, the bells ward off gremlins, evil spirits of the road. Gremlins lurk the highway, throwing debris on the road and chasing animals into bikers' paths. Most riders probably don't actually believe they're chasing gremlins away on their daily rides, but it's always fun to play into the traditions and superstitions of a community. Gremlin Bells must also be gifted by a close friend to be effective, so they're seen as a gesture of good will.
Unlike other myths, the motorcycle bell myth is a tough one to write off, not only because it's founded in friendship, but because you can never be sure what's lurking on those dark desert highways … better safe than sorry.
Find bikes, equipment and more all on KSL Classifieds. It's no myth — KSL Classifieds is your local source for new and used bikes and gear.
