Unwritten Rules of Motorcycle Riding

You may know the standard rules of motorcycle riding, but there are plenty of unwritten rules that you should abide by. Knowing these rules will help you successfully navigate the world of motorcycle riding! Keep reading to learn more, and give us a call at Nielsen Enterprises with any questions. We are located in Lake Villa, Illinois and proudly serve Chicago, Illinois and Milwaukee, Wisconsin!

Look, But Don’t Touch

You should never touch another person’s bike without getting explicit permission first. You wouldn’t go up to a stranger’s car and start touching it! The rules aren’t different for motorcycles. You may be curious about another person’s bike, but it’s rude to touch a stranger’s vehicle. It can even be interpreted as an attempt to steal the bike!

Don’t Ask to Ride

Asking someone to ride their motorcycle is usually not a good idea. Someone may feel comfortable letting you ride their bike, but you need to have explicit permission. 

“Right of Way” Doesn’t Always Mean “Go”

Although there are legal rules of the road, sometimes people don’t follow them. With this in mind, you need to stay vigilant on the road. Just because you have the legal right of way doesn’t mean it’s safe to go. Other motorists may not pay attention to this rule. You should make sure you always do a thorough check before you change lanes, enter into an intersection, or make a turn.

Helmet Taps

If another rider coming from the opposite direction taps your helmet while on the road, this is actually a special code. They are telling you that there is a police officer ahead. Helmet taps are another common unwritten rule of motorcycle riding, so be ready for it!

Don’t Join Groups Uninvited

You’d be surprised by how many people try to join a group of riders on the road without asking. This is not only a potential safety risk, but it also is a social faux pas. Think of it like sitting down at someone’s table in a restaurant and suddenly joining in on their conversation. Not to mention motorcycle groups often have to coordinate riding positions, so adding someone new can throw everyone off.

We hope this guide helps you understand the unwritten rules of motorcycle riding. If you want any more information or you’re looking to buy a new bike, reach out to our friendly team at Nielsen Enterprises in Lake Villa, Illinois. We also proudly serve Chicago, Illinois and Milwaukee, Wisconsin. We can’t wait to help you find the perfect motorcycle for your next road trip!