A Predicter of Safety
“Safety doesn’t happen by accident.” – Author Unknown
Riding with a group and solo are very different types of riding, but the safety side is still a part of the journey. Whether you are planning to have the lead rider carry all the needed materials or your prefer to pack your own, just be sure that you are prepared for the grand rides you are planning.
On a recent group ride in the Arizona heat, of approximately 250 miles, it amazed me that there was not prep regarding water, safety kits, and the likes. I like to travel with a Camelback as I am a big drinker and dehydrate quickly in the warmer weather. The safety first side is imperative.
On my year-long solo journey, pre-departure I sat with my older brother Brandon (Firefighter/Engineer/EMT ) and we planned out what I might need in my first aid kit for the road. This took on a lot of different angles, and we had to plan through some “what-if” or “worst-case” scenarios.
Now you might be thinking that it is morbid or that you will be fine out on the road, but I honestly believe I never had to use that first aid kit because we created it. If I went out with no safety prep, you can bet I would have needed it and would not have had it.
A small item of great importance is the safety vest or brightly colored items to let others know if you have broken down or are in need of assistance. Remember as bikers we are not always seen and the more visible you can make yourself, the safer you will be.
Knowing your bike is a huge part of safety. It is wonderful if you are carrying the pocket-sized tubeless tire repair kit - if you have tubeless tires. If you do not know your bike you may be like the unfortunate person above that gets a flat, pulls out the repair kit – only to find, they are not for the type of tires that they have.
Other items are bike specific, but all riders need essential tools for safety, you may even have AMA insurance and towing as part of your safety kit (which let’s be honest it only takes up as much space as a credit card and can save you many hours of frustration). But you may not always be on a road that is accessible by a tow truck, and this is where you will need to have the minimum basic knowledge of your bike.
Additional notes – zip ties, Ziploc, Gorilla Tape, and straps (like the Prong Horn straps (shown) by Giant Loop, or the RockStraps are my two top choices).
“Safety is a cheap and effective insurance policy.” – Author Unknown
Written & photographs by Danell Lynn, Guinness World Record Rider – www.danelllynn.com, @danelllynn 
