It is a nightmare scenario. You are moving along on a busy motorway, feeling comfortable that you are capable of weaving your way the around heavy traffic better than other vehicles you see on the road.

All over a sudden your engine stops and you’re thrown into panic mode. If you are out on your motorcycle and encounter a problem, what should you do?

Get to either side of the road

Traffic can be a dangerous thing, particularly if you are riding on a highway. So, you should stay calm and focused, then immediately turn on the flashers on your motorcycle. Decided on which side of the highway you will be able to reach.

Typically, the right side of the road, with its emergency lane, is the best, but it is not always possible. With your turn signal on or flushers, wave your hand to attract the attention of other drivers as you start slowing and changing lanes. If other drivers can see that you’re in difficulty, they will slow down and give way.

You Should Call for help

Even if you could be a motorcycle enthusiast, fixing the bike yourself on either side of the road when it breaks down isn’t advisable. Depending on where you are you face a probability of getting hit by another vehicle while you’re hunched over to work on your motorcycle.

Stay visible

If you have broken down, you should stay visible to other motorists while you are stationary. You should use your hazard warning lights where possible to make people aware that you are there having a breakdown.

Consider utilising your parking lights and indicators if you do not have hazard lights. Do not leave your headlights on because doing so can drain your battery faster and cause further issues. Also, it may confuse passing drivers into thinking there’s no issue.

Being prepared

Although you cannot know when you might have a breakdown, you can plan and think of what you will do if it occurs. This way, you will have a backup plan.

Also, you should get into good habits such as carrying around a spare battery for your mobile phone, letting one of your family members know where you’re going or having a whistle just in case.

You should also consider carrying hi-visibility clothing that you can wear whenever you break down. They are cheap and can fold up very small, thus they can easily fit under your motorcycle’s seat. Know where you can purchase motorcycle parts in case you will need to replace any parts on your motorcycle.

Conclusion

If you’re unfortunate enough and experience a break down, you should always remember these simple things: do not panic, try and stay calm and make sure that you take the right precaution so that you can overcome the ordeal safely and quickly.

Additionally, pay attention to other motorists who are also using the road. Lastly, always know where you can get genuine motorcycle parts to reduce the chances of the problem occurring again in the future.