MOTORCYCLES - With the constant traffic jams, it’s hardly surprising that more and more people are turning to other means of transport. Naturally, the first alternative that comes to mind is a motorcycle. Not only is it faster but it’s also more practical and affordable.
And if you’re a motorcyclist in Indianapolis, you’re lucky as you get to enjoy the wide and open roads and promote the motorsports culture. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is what actually helped promote motorcycling in the first place. That’s why riding in Indianapolis feels like part hobby, part lifestyle.
If you’re new to the city or if you’re riding through Indianapolis, it’d be a shame not to fully enjoy your trip. That’s why it’s important to be prepared and do a bit of research before you hit the road.
You’ll want to learn more about the local spots, recommendations and proper gear before exploring Indianapolis on two wheels.
Don' t worry, we won’t bore you with the details. We’ll give you some tips on how to prepare and you'll be ready to ride safely.
Why motorcycling appeals to riders
A lot of people can’t understand what’s the big deal about motorcycles. Some people consider it dangerous and way too aggressive. On the other hand, there are those who are so passionate about motorcycling that they not only spend hours preparing their vehicles but they also invest a lot in proper gear and even attend events that are intended to bring the community together.
As there are more than 8.8 million motorcycles registered in the US, the community is quite large and almost every larger US city has a riding community of its own.
A big part of what makes motorcycling so appealing in Indianapolis is the sheer freedom it brings. The city is large enough to offer endless places to explore but small enough that you can get out of the downtown traffic and into calm stretches of road without wasting half the day weaving through congestion.
Riding here gives you this perfect blend of accessible city movement and quiet country scenery. You get the best of both worlds as a motorcyclist in Indianapolis as long as you prepare properly and ride safely. And we’re going to show you how to do that.
Riding like a local
As promised, in the below paragraphs, we’ll give you a bit more information on how to make riding more fun and safe as a hobby.
Knowing your local resources matters
First of all, it’s smart to know what resources you have at your disposal. Let’s face it, motorcycle accidents are quite common and many drivers don’t check their blindspots. That’s why you could easily get injured and you’d be left clueless as to what to do next.
We know no one likes thinking about the stressful parts of motorcycling, but it’s still part of the reality. You could also experience mechanical issues and roadside problems. Indianapolis has several shops that handle repairs quickly, and connecting with a trusted mechanic early on is a smart move.
It’s also useful to know where you can turn for legal support if a situation becomes complicated. It’s advisable to find a personal injury lawyer before you even come to need one. That way, you’ll be prepared for the unpredictable.
In Indianapolis, you’ll be able to find all kinds of support systems you’ll need so no need to worry. Even a quick Google search will give you enough insight into who to turn to.
The community and culture behind the hobby
The social aspect is another major draw. Indianapolis has a surprisingly strong riding community. You’ll often wind many weekend meet-ups and even week-long events where the main focus is on motorcycling.
Plus, you’ll often see riders getting together in local breweries and coffee shops. This gives newcomers a simple way to make friends and learn from more experienced riders without feeling intimidated.
Or, if you’re a longtime Indianapolis resident but you’ve just now got into motorcycling, you’ll feel included in the community in no time. Make sure to join the online Facebook groups to be informed about the meetups on time. The members of those groups often share useful information as well.
They’ll often share insights that don’t show up on Google Maps or online forums, like which roads have ongoing construction, which coffee shops are rider-friendly, or which routes look beautiful during sunset.
Choosing the right gear for the Indy weather
If you’re considering making motorcycling a long-term hobby, it helps to know how to deal with the weather. Choosing the right gear is essential.
Indy’s unpredictable weather is something all riders here learn to respect pretty quickly. Humid summers, sudden rainstorms, and chilly fall winds mean your gear needs to work for multiple conditions. Investing in a good jacket with ventilation, quality gloves, and a helmet that fits just right should always come before spending money on upgrades to your bike. Don’t underestimate the power of good gear.
There are several shops around the city where you can get properly fitted gear instead of guessing sizes online. Talking to someone who rides locally also helps you understand what works for Indy’s climate and what doesn’t.
Again, use those Facebook groups to get the info you need. Don’t be shy to ask questions, it’s completely fine to seek advice from experts.
The bottom line
Motorcycling in Indianapolis is more than just a hobby. It’s a way to explore the city, connect with people, enjoy the open road, and experience a sense of movement and independence that’s hard to find anywhere else.
Whether you’re using your motorcycle only as a means of transport or if it’s something you’re passionate about, don’t hesitate to use all the resources Indianapolis has to offer. There are many online(and offline) communities to join. You can use these groups to chat with members and get local recommendations.
With the right gear, a little knowledge of the local riding scene, and a good understanding of the resources available to you, you’ll enjoy Indianapolis knowing you have a community to turn to if need be.
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