Can Motorcycling be a Healthy Hobby?

Triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic, people worldwide experienced a powerful shift in their personal transportation preferences, sparking demand for off-road and power sports vehicles. Motorcycle sales soared in 2020 and 2021, reaching an impressive 573,000 units in 2021, the highest level seen in 15 years.

This is due in big part to the escalation of health safety concerns and social distancing measures. Public transportation became less attractive as it posed potential transmission risks, leading many people to turn to options like motorcycles, facilitating social distancing.

Although many of these new motorcycle owners originally turned to ownership because of the pandemic, they simultaneously discovered the additional health benefits. In fact, motorcycling can be considered a healthy hobby. Although others may look to running or even pilates, motorcycling can offer just as many benefits for your physical or mental health.

Physical Health

On the surface, motorcycling might seem like a sedentary activity. After all, many riders may seem as if they’re only sitting down and twisting the throttle from an outside perspective. As any rider will attest, managing and controlling a motorcycle is anything but passive. You've got to use multiple muscle groups, from the arms that grip the handlebars, the legs that balance and control the machine, to the core and back that help maintain posture and stability.

The physical demands of motorcycling can also vary depending on the type of ride. A casual trip to the local store may not feel like a marathon, but it's still an opportunity to use your muscles, improve coordination and balance. Now, shift gears and venture into off-road or 'adventure' motorcycling, and you’ll find rigorous terrain often demands more physical exertion from the rider. Your legs, arms, and core must constantly adapt and respond to the changing environment. With this consistent engagement, you’ll boost your overall core strength, endurance, and agility in the process.

Mental Health

The mental health benefits that motorcycling provides are as impressive as their physical counterparts. In a study published by the National Institutes of Health, researchers found that adventure sports, including motorcycling, could significantly reduce riders’ stress levels.

Similarly, a groundbreaking study conducted by the Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior revealed that motorcycling could improve cognitive functioning. Here's a quick overview of what they found about the hobby:

• A 25% reduction in stress hormone indicators, and an overall less stressed state.
• Amplified sensory focus compared to car driving.
• Shifts in brain activity suggested an increased level of alertness comparable to the stimulating effect of sipping a cup of coffee.

As a motorcyclist, whether on an adventure trail or the city streets, you must continually maintain focus, make split-second decisions, and adapt to ever-changing environments. Each ride is an exercise in cognitive agility, enhancing mental acuity, and improving overall brain function.

Enjoying Motorcycling Safely

Even though motorcycling, as discussed, offers plenty of physical and mental health benefits, others still hold concerns about the activity. However, the risks that are often associated with motorcycling can be avoided as long as riders practice the following steps.

Vehicle Maintenance

Regular maintenance practices are the foundation of a motorcycle's longevity and safety:

• Always keep an eye on oil levels, and change your oil according to the manufacturer's specifications.
• Check tire pressure frequently and replace tires when needed; low tire pressure can lead to potentially dangerous blowouts.
• Inspect all cables for wear-and-tear - worn or frayed cables can cause loss of throttle control or stickiness in brakes.
• Check the chain for excess slack and proper tension.

Some riders may procrastinate or put off this maintenance simply because it can be difficult. Using tools like a lift table can make the process safer and more comfortable. Remember to follow best practices for using a motorcycle lift, ensuring your motorcycle is secure before beginning any work.

Storage and Transportation

Next up is proper storage and transportation, which are often overlooked but play a significant role in maintaining your bike's health. Proper storage minimizes the risk of damage and malfunctions. For instance, using motorcycle covers can protect your precious ride from harsh elements. The saying, "out of sight, out of mind," does not apply to your motorcycle — regular checks, even during storage, will help you keep your vehicle in top shape.

When transporting motorcycles, using secure carriers and trailers is a must. Motorcycles, unlike their four-wheeled counterparts, require additional support during transport to prevent damage. A slight shift or an unexpected bump could cause substantial damage if the bike isn't properly secured.

Equipment

The equipment that you wear on your motorcycle should be just as essential as the actual bike. Often, it can mean the difference between you walking away from the accident or riding in an ambulance. Your helmet, for one, should be a Department of Transportation (DOT) compliant helmet that meets rigorous safety standards. A helmet is your primary defense against severe head injuries, hence, non-negotiable.

Next are motorcycle gloves. Apart from offering protection against harsh weather conditions, these gloves are designed to shield your hands in the event of a fall. They also provide a better grip, ensuring precise control over your machine.

Then there's body armor — jackets and pants fortified with padding and made from abrasion-resistant materials. Body armor protects your critical areas, such as the spine, chest, and knees, from impact and injury. Boots, too, are essential, providing ankle support and safeguarding against injuries during mishaps.

Riding Techniques

Proper riding techniques, combined with adherence to traffic laws, are fundamental to safe and responsible motorcycling:

• Maintaining a safe distance from other riders and vehicles allows you ample time and space to react to sudden changes.
• Stop at red lights and yield when required.
• Respect speed limits and traffic laws; speeding puts you and other riders in danger.
• Never, ever ride under the influence.

Overall, motorcycling isn't about living on the edge but enjoying the ride while keeping safety in clear focus. So, gear up, ride smart, and embrace the road with confidence and care.