Whether you’re new to motorcycles or have been riding for years, we’ve all heard our fair share of motorcycle myths. Don’t take someone’s word for it – always do your research. These are some of the most common myths that if taken too seriously, can spell danger on the road.

1. Motorcycles Can Stop Faster Than Cars

Most riders believe that they can stop faster than other vehicles on the road, and that simply isn’t true. Motorcycle braking distance is actually very similar to that of a car, but cars have a slight advantage mechanically.

2. Loud Pipes Save Lives

Noise isn’t always the best way to alert those around you. Many people are distracted listening to music, illegally texting and driving, or won’t know which direction your loud pipes are coming from. Some of the most common motorcycle crashes are due to hazards directly in front of or to one side of a rider. Motorcycle pipes face the opposite way. Don’t rely on noise to alert those around you that you are coming. Ride defensively.

3. Helmets Block Your Vision and Hearing

A properly fitting motorcycle helmet will not block central or peripheral vision and actually helps to block the excessive wind noise that can lead to hearing loss. If your helmet does block your vision, it’s not the right fit for you.

4. It’s Safer to Ride on Streets Than on a Highway

The logic behind this myth is that traveling at slower speeds is safer, but city streets have more hazards – cars traveling in multiple directions, pedestrians, intersections, stop signs and signals, the list goes on and on. On a highway, everyone is going around the same speed and traveling in the same direction.

5. Track Days Are The Same As Racing

Motorcycle track days allow riders a chance to practice safe riding techniques and gain confidence in a controlled and safe environment. While riders do have the option to travel at higher than normal speeds, techniques taught at track events can be transferred to street riding.

It’s A Fine Line is an inclusive community of motorcycle riders advocating one common mission: zero motorcycle deaths by 2030. We want to share videos and stories about motorcycle events, rides, clubs, gear, safety and training because we believe that together we can save the lives of our friends, our families and our communities.