July 24th, 2010 | 
Author: The most crucial aspect to safely riding a motorcycle, of course, is learning how to properly handle one. Once you have the basics down, it is simply a matter of gaining more experience over time and learning how to negotiate more complex traffic scenarios. However, if you don’t regularly service your motorcycle, no amount of driving skills or experience may save you from a serious accident. One of the greatest threats to proper handling for even the most experienced of drivers is a steering problem or handling defect. When a rider is not able to steer the bike properly, a severe crash may result.
The Importance of Regular Maintenance
An infrequently or improperly serviced bike is a dangerous bike. In many cases, handling defects develop gradually over time so you may not notice a growing problem until it is too late. To minimize your risk of an accident caused by poor handling, have your bike serviced by an experienced professional trained to look for warning signs of a steering problem. You could also take a maintenance class or learn the details from a friend to service your own bike. Whichever you decide, be sure to check all aspects of your handling each time you perform bike maintenance, including:
- Steering alignment
- Handlebar position and condition
- Steering head condition
Maintaining Your Steering Head Bearings
One of the most important parts of a functional handling system is not visible from the outside of the bike. Motorcycle steering relies on bearings located inside the steering head, which are lubricated to provide for smooth steering. Over time, the grease on the bearings will dry out or be washed out by power washes and rain. When the bearings are not properly greased the handling will become more shaky and unreliable. The bearings can even become damaged, possibly causing the rider to lose control altogether. Because the grease on the bearings wears off slowly over time, you may not realize that your handling is gradually becoming more and more difficult. Keeping your bearings lubricated at all times can help you avoid a potentially severe accident.
If you have properly maintained your bike but still experience handling problems that result in a crash, you may be the victim of a handling defect. Your motorcycle manufacturer may be liable for a defective part, poor design, or improper installation. Likewise, a mechanic may have incorrectly maintained your bike and may be responsible for a handling problem that caused your accident. If you have experienced an accident caused by handling failure, consider contacting a motorcycle accident attorney immediately to investigate the details of your case.
For More Information
To learn more about motorcycle defect liability and how you can initiate a lawsuit for compensation, please visit the website of the Wisconsin motorcycle accident lawyers of Habush, Habush & Rottier, S.C. today.
Joseph Devine
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