Road rash isn’t a punchline to a joke about bad motorcycle handling or old video game. Road rash, also called “friction burn,” is a serious injury. The severity of the wound is measured by degrees, the same as you would a chemical or fire burn. Since the skin is the largest organ of our bodies, getting road rash opens you up to other vulnerabilities, such as infection. But there is more to understand about road rash than these points.

Let’s look at this serious injury that can happen to anyone and learn how to classify and treat various types of road rash.

The Different Types of Road Rash

Not every bout of road rash is created equal. There are three main types of road rash:

1. Avulsion – the skin is scraped away. Sometimes fat, muscle, and even bone will be exposed.
2. Compression – where the body is caught between two objects, such as the motorcycle and the road. This results in bruising, broken bones, and damaged muscle.
3. Open wound – usually require stitches. Open wound road rash might even require skin grafting.

Aside from the 3 different types, there are 3 degrees of damage:

1. First degree – the first layer of the skin is red. Does not require medical treatment and will heal well enough on its own.
2. Second degree – the first layer of skin, known as the epidermis, is broken. There can be bleeding and debris stuck in the wound. Usually requires little medical treatment and can heal with no scarring or lasting damage.
3. Third degree – skin has been peeled away, leaving tissue, fat and sometimes bone exposed. Victims often need skin grafting.

The degrees of the crash depends on factors such as the force of the impact with the ground, the type of surface where the crash takes place, and whether safety gear was equipped.

Road rash will often occur in places that come in contact with the abrasive surface, either when attempting to catch oneself or when rolling or getting dragged. The outside of the legs, knees, palms, thighs, shoulders, and face are usually where road rash occurs.

Complications of Road Rash

Seek medical treatment immediately if you experience any of the following with road rash:

• Severe pain
• Inability to move affected region
• Cuts on the face that are larger than a ¼ inch
• Cuts on the body that are larger than a ½ inch
• Bleeding doesn’t stop
• Gaping wound remains opened with you relax the body
• Fat is visible in the exposed tissues
• Road rash is paired with other injuries, including possible concussion or broken bones.

Any open wound should be treated with antibiotics within six hours. Otherwise, you are at risk of infection.

Treatment and Recovery From Road Rash

Depending on the severity of the road rash, you can oftentimes treat it yourself. In that event, do the following:

• Stop any bleeding.
• Wash your hands with soap and water.
• Rinse the wound thoroughly.
• Wash the wound with soap, water, and then use some witch hazel.
• Apply a topical antibiotic.
• Bandage the wound.
• Change the dressing.

Note: During the recovery, the skin will undergo healing from the deepest layers to the top. It might get scabs. Do not pick the scabs. Instead, continue changing the bandages and applying topical antibiotics. Once the oozing stops, you can use petroleum jelly to keep the skin supple and lessen the scarring.

If you end up going to the doctor because of a deep wound, the medical professional might recommend using ibuprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), acetaminophen, or naproxen to deal with the pain.

Remember that because the skin has been opened by abrasion, you could be at risk for infection. Consider getting a tetanus shot. Tetanus boosters last 10 years, so if you had an injury where the epidermis or dermis of the skin has been injured, tetanus bacteria can enter the wound. At any time symptoms of infection begin, such as redness, swelling, warm or hot skin around the injury, tenderness, pain, or bloody ooze or yellowish pus, you could have an infection. Make sure to get to a doctor immediately.

Hopefully, you should now have an understanding of road rash and how serious it can be. Don’t ignore severe injuries after a fall. Drive safe and stay safe, so you can keep riding!

Motorcycles are more than just vehicles; they’re a passion, a lifestyle, and for many, an expression of personal freedom. However, every rider knows that the smallest details can make the biggest difference when it comes to convenience, safety, and enjoyment on the road. One such detail, often overlooked, is the motorcycle kickstand. Specifically, an adjustable motorcycle kickstand can transform your riding experience in ways you might not have considered. Let’s explore why upgrading to an adjustable kickstand for your motorcycle could be a game-changer.

Key Takeaways

1. Adjustable Kickstands Enhance Stability: They can be modified for various terrains, ensuring your bike stays upright in different parking conditions.
2. Ideal for Customized Bikes: Modifications that alter a bike’s height and balance make adjustable kickstands a necessity for maintaining stability.
3. Improves Ergonomics: Adjustable kickstands can be tailored to individual rider needs, making it easier to handle the bike, especially for those with physical limitations.
4. Complementary Accessories: Kickstand pads and plates further stabilize the motorcycle, especially on soft or uneven surfaces.

Comparison Table: Standard vs. Adjustable Motorcycle Kickstands

Enhanced Stability on Varied Terrain

The primary function of a kickstand is to provide stability when the motorcycle is parked. Standard, non-adjustable kickstands are designed with a one-size-fits-all approach, assuming a level parking surface. In reality, riders face a variety of parking surfaces—gravel, grass, slopes, and uneven roads. An adjustable kickstand allows for length modifications, ensuring your bike remains upright and stable, regardless of ground conditions. This adaptability is not just about convenience; it’s a safety feature that prevents your motorcycle from tipping over and sustaining damage.

Customization for Custom and Modified Bikes

Customization is at the heart of motorcycle culture. Riders spend considerable time and resources modifying their bikes to reflect their personal style and to improve performance. These modifications can alter the bike’s original balance and height, making the original kickstand less effective or even unusable. Custom kickstands for motorcycles offer a solution, but an adjustable kickstand provides a versatile and often more economical alternative, accommodating changes in bike height and balance without the need for multiple replacements.

Improved Ergonomics and Accessibility

For shorter riders or those with limited physical strength, maneuvering a motorcycle on its kickstand can sometimes be challenging. An adjustable kickstand can be set to a height that reduces the effort required to lift the bike off the stand. This improved ergonomics makes riding more accessible and enjoyable for everyone, ensuring that the focus remains on the joy of the ride, not the struggle of parking.

Motorcycle Kickstand Pads and Plates: The Perfect Companions

While an adjustable kickstand offers improved stability and customization, pairing it with a motorcycle kickstand pad or plate can enhance its functionality even further. Kickstand pads distribute the motorcycle’s weight over a larger area, making them ideal for soft ground where a stand might otherwise sink. Similarly, motorcycle kickstand plates offer a stable platform on uneven surfaces, preventing the stand from slipping. Together, these accessories complement the adjustable kickstand, providing a comprehensive solution to parking challenges.

FAQs: Adjustable Motorcycle Kickstands

1. What makes an adjustable kickstand better than a standard one?

   • An adjustable kickstand can be altered in length to suit various terrains and bike modifications, offering superior stability and customization.

2. Can I install an adjustable kickstand on any motorcycle?

   • Yes, most adjustable kickstands are designed to fit a wide range of motorcycles, but it’s essential to check compatibility with your specific model.

3. Will an adjustable kickstand affect my bike’s balance?

   • It will improve balance by allowing adjustments to accommodate different ground levels and modifications that may affect your bike’s original balance.

4. How do I know if my adjustable kickstand is at the right height?

   • The bike should sit at a stable angle without leaning too much to one side. Adjust the kickstand until you find a stable and secure position.

5. Are kickstand pads and plates necessary?

   • While not strictly necessary, they are highly recommended for additional stability, especially on soft or uneven surfaces.

6. Can adjusting my kickstand void my motorcycle’s warranty?

   • Generally, no. However, it’s best to consult your warranty terms or manufacturer to be sure.

Conclusion: A Simple Upgrade with Significant Benefits

An adjustable kickstand for motorcycles represents a simple upgrade with a profound impact on your riding experience. It offers enhanced stability, customization, and ergonomics, making it a wise investment for riders of all styles and preferences. When combined with kickstand pads and plates, it provides a foolproof solution to virtually any parking challenge. Whether you’re a casual rider or a motorcycle enthusiast, consider the adjustable kickstand as your next game-changing accessory. It’s a small detail that promises to make a big difference, ensuring your focus remains on the freedom and joy of riding.