Surviving Traffic on a Motorcycle: Tips for Making the Best of a Tough Situation
Traffic is the bane of every motorcyclist’s existence. No one wakes up, puts on their helmet, and thinks, I hope the highway is packed this morning. Riding is about freedom, speed, and the thrill of the open road—traffic is the exact opposite. But sometimes, commuting on a motorcycle is a necessity, whether for convenience or to save on gas. Here are some tips to make riding in traffic more bearable, even if it’s never exactly fun.
1. Wear Lighter Gear
If you’re used to riding mostly on weekends, you might have some high-quality gear that’s designed for safety and style but isn’t ideal for sitting in traffic. Heavy leather jackets and gloves offer great protection, but they can quickly turn into an oven when you’re stuck in stop-and-go traffic.
Switching to lighter, breathable textile gear can make a world of difference. Textiles have improved dramatically in recent years and now offer excellent protection, with mesh panels that allow for much better airflow. Textile gloves, jackets, and pants will keep you cooler and more comfortable, without sacrificing safety.
2. Modify Your Helmet for Airflow
Another way to make traffic more bearable is by modifying your helmet to improve airflow. While I’m not suggesting you take a drill to your helmet, consider removing the face shield if you wear a dual-sport style helmet. This can let in a lot more air and keep you cooler on hot days.
If you’re thinking of getting a helmet specifically for commuting, consider a dual-sport helmet. They’re generally lighter than traditional sport bike helmets but offer the same level of protection. Adding music or a Bluetooth communication system can also make traffic less mind-numbing.
3. Leave More Space
When riding in traffic, it’s crucial to leave plenty of space between yourself and the vehicle in front of you. This extra space gives you more time to react if the car ahead suddenly brakes. Motorcycles typically have better visibility, but even so, you can’t predict when a driver might slam on their brakes unexpectedly.
Leaving space also allows you to keep rolling slowly rather than constantly stopping and starting, which can help you avoid overheating—both your engine and yourself. Plus, maintaining some distance can reduce the need to constantly work your clutch, making the ride smoother and less tiring.
4. Avoid Wearing a Backpack
Carrying a heavy backpack while riding in traffic can be a miserable experience. Not only does it dig into your shoulders, but it also blocks airflow, making you even hotter. Instead, invest in a tail bag or saddlebags for your motorcycle. These storage solutions keep the weight off your back and can be easily attached and removed.
Tail bags are particularly convenient, offering enough space for essentials without weighing you down. If you need more storage, throw-over saddlebags are a solid option and work with most motorcycles.
5. Use Bungee Cords for Quick Fixes
If you’re in a pinch and need to transport something bulky, bungee cords are your friend. They’re cheap, versatile, and can help you secure almost anything to your bike. While not ideal for long-term use, bungee cords can be a lifesaver for quick trips when you don’t have proper luggage.
For example, I once strapped a rice cooker to the tail of my Harley using nothing but bungee cords—and it cost me just $15. It might not be the most sophisticated solution, but it gets the job done in a pinch.
Conclusion
Riding a motorcycle in traffic is never going to be as enjoyable as a spirited weekend ride, but with the right gear and some smart strategies, you can make it more bearable. By following these tips, you’ll be better equipped to handle the challenges of commuting on a bike, stay safe, and maybe even enjoy the ride—at least a little bit.
