Health Benefits of Riding

Riding your motorcycle is a convenient and fun way to get around town, but did you know that there are health benefits as well? Riding a bike won’t replace the need for proper diet and exercise, but you might be surprised by some of the ways it can help you relax, practice focus, and even help with some muscles you might not normally use. We’ve gathered some of the most notable health benefits below.

When you ride a motorcycle, your brain engages differently than it does while driving a car. When you drive a car, your brain tends to be much more passive. It’s not long before highway hypnosis takes over and suddenly you realize that you’ve been driving for several minutes, but you can’t recall the last stretch of the street you just passed by. You use your hands to steer, but your body remains fairly still. The only time your brain really becomes engaged is when you’re reacting to a safety issue, such as an animal coming into your path or sudden braking by a motorist.

Riding a motorcycle is an entirely different experience. Your brain becomes much more engaged and focused as you’re facing more obstacles as you ride. You drive around much larger vehicles, and obstacle such as potholes, which are more threatening to your bike. You’ll be actively scanning the roads more often as the hazards affect you more. Undoubtedly, your brain gets an intense workout as you ride.

While a more active brain isn’t going to directly benefit your mental health, it does relate to the release of feel-good chemicals, like adrenaline and endorphins. The fun of riding a motorcycle can improve your mood drastically and you’ll generally feel more positive. These effects tend to last long after you finish your motorcycle ride.

Additionally, you might be able to reduce negative emotions, like stress. Stress can