RideSmart KY

09/05/2026

Be careful out there riding to your favorite holiday activities.

09/02/2026

Congratulations

09/02/2026

Congratulations

09/02/2026

New Study Highlights Dangers Of Distracted Driving

A new study from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) underscores a problem motorcyclists know all too well, distracted driving remains a serious threat on America’s roads, and riders often pay the price.

The IIHS study found that cellphone use before crashes is significantly underreported in police reports. Using data from nearly 17,000 crashes, researchers found drivers were using their cellphones within 30 seconds of impact in 7% of single-vehicle crashes and 8% of two-vehicle crashes. Police reports recorded cellphone use in less than 1% of those crashes.

The problem goes well beyond texting or making a phone call. Drivers were frequently tapping, swiping and otherwise manipulating their phones before crashes. IIHS also notes that looking away from the road for just two seconds doubles the risk of a crash or near-crash event. For motorcyclists, distracted driving can have devastating consequences. A driver who looks down at a phone, changes an app or simply fails to pay attention may never see a motorcycle until it is too late.

“Distracted driving isn't just a problem for the person behind the wheel. it is a threat to everyone sharing the road, especially motorcyclists,” said the Motorcycle Riders Foundation President Kirk “Hardtail” Willard. “This study reinforces what riders have been saying for years: drivers need to put the phone down, keep their eyes on the road and focus on driving.”

08/28/2026

Good riding tip.

Trail braking isn’t rocket science, but it may be the most argued-about subject in motorcycling.

The biggest pushback we hear is that trail braking is exclusively an advanced racing technique. That would be a reasonable argument, if every one of us didn’t already trail braking while riding or driving a car.

Trail braking has nothing to do with speed and everything to do with control. It simply means trailing off brake pressure as you add steering or lean angle.

In our newest YouTube video, we head to Nick’s ranch to clear up the confusion. Nick demonstrates a few simple, low-speed drills that any rider can use to begin developing this fundamental skill safely and progressively.

If you don’t already trail brake, or someone taught you to finish all your braking in a straight line and abruptly release the brakes before tipping in, this video is for you.

Watch the full video: https://youtu.be/Q0oIfYOA8I8?si=R-cqZOyru_Ch7pMV

Yamaha Motor USA | Dainese | Arai Helmet Americas | Bridgestone Motorcycle USA

08/23/2026

08/21/2026

08/21/2026

A motorcycle doesn’t magically go where you look, but riders should absolutely look where they want the motorcycle to go.

When approaching a turn, make sure you physically turn your head, focus on where you want to go, and let the bike work with you.

We teach these skills in our MSF courses. Come improve your ride with us!