Motorcycle Safety

State Route 20 through the North Cascades is a popular destination for motorcyclists. Each year motor vehicle accidents involving motorcycles occur, some with fatalities and others resulting in serious injury.

Riding your motorcycle on park roads can be very different than riding on other routes. The road design, wildlife activity, and variable speed limits, and diverse landscape of parks can make riding more challenging than other roadways.In addition to the tips found on the motorcycle safety page, motorcyclists should follow these suggestions to reduce risk.

Unforgiving Road Shoulders
Road shoulders are narrow in places. Travel in the center of the lane of travel to avoid the unforgiving road shoulders

Decreasing Radius Curves
A decreasing radius curve may tighten as you go through it. This is a design feature that requires some extra care, especially on motorcycles. Give yourself plenty of time to approach and complete curves. Be aware of your curve position, and avoid straying over the center line.

Safe Group Riding
Riding in large groups of motorcyclists is common. The formation in which groups ride is important to their safety. Single-file riding is a best practice to follow due to the curvy nature of the highway. This allows each rider more space to maneuver. Pay close attention to the road and incoming traffic as well as other riders in your group.

Defensive Driving
Oftentimes unsafe driving by other motorists contributes to accidents. Watch for oncoming vehicles straying over the center line. This is common in blind curves. Motorcyclists should stay in the center of the lane of travel to help reduce risk. Pay attention to sudden stops or traffic slow-downs, especially around scenic overlooks, road construction, or other congested areas.

Road Surface Hazards
You may encounter road hazards such as oil spots, fallen rocks, trees or tree debris, and loose gravel. Pay close attention to the road surface as you ride. Weather such as rain, snow, hail, and ice can also make the road surface slippery and dangerous to ride on. Check the weather forecast before riding, and avoid riding in potentially dangerous conditions if possible.

 

Watch for Wildlife
Roads cross wildlife habitats and migration routes. There is a high chance that you will spot animals on your ride. To be safe while riding, follow the speed limit, scan for wildlife, and slow down if you see wildlife along the road.