Riding a motorcycle is one of the most freeing activities on the planet. The wind is blowing in your hair, and the road is flowing by below. But some of us have never experienced this and want to.
Riding a motorcycle can be challenging and even frightening at times. However, the more you practice, the more comfortable you’ll be. Once you’re comfortable, the road is yours, and the opportunities are endless. This article will give you the top 10 beginner motorcycle tips to consider next time you go riding.
Tips For First-Time Motorcycle Riders
Don’t worry if you’ve made it to this article and have never ridden a bike before, don’t worry. Follow these tips we’ll lay out for you, and you’ll be rolling down the road before you know it.
Most motorcycle riding is posture, form, and habit. Whether it’s keeping your knees tucked, keeping your head on a swivel, or not breaking when leaning into a turn, all of this will become muscle memory with time.
1. Keep Your Head on a Swivel
Almost all motorcycle accidents are other people’s fault. Motorcyclists are cautious and know what they’re doing. That said, ensure you’re always watching where you’re going. Keep your head on a swivel, and always use your mirrors and look over your shoulders. When changing lanes, you’ll figure out people do not see you, so be sure to see them.
2. Dress For The Fall, Not The Ride
When riding your new motorcycle, you want to look cool, in style, and like a biker. If you have yet to hear it, you will go down. It’s inevitable, and we want you to be dressed for the slide. Road rash is an injury that can be easily prevented simply with leather chaps or protective riding gear. Wear riding gloves, a riding jacket, and riding pants. As well, never open-toed shoes.
3. Wear a Helmet
There are a lot of states in America that do not require you to wear a helmet legally. But, even if you live in one of those states, protect your noggin. Almost all fatal motorcycle accidents include injury to the head. So, simply protecting your head with a helmet will save your life.
4. Stay in Your Comfort Zone
When riding a motorcycle, you should only worry about yourself. Don’t worry about keeping up with your buddies or trying to be the fastest. Instead, keep it slow, stay in control, and stay in your comfort zone.
5. Don’t Drink And Ride
Although this tip sounds self-explanatory, it’s essential to cover. When riding with clubs and groups, most of the time, meet-up spots will be the local biker bar or a restaurant. Don’t drink more than the legal limit, and never get on a motorcycle intoxicated. This goes for any substance. It will never be yourself you have to worry about, but the other drivers on the road. So stay alert, stay in a great head space, and stay sober.
6. No Passengers Until You’re a Confident Rider
We all want our loved ones to experience the open road with us, and there is nothing better than having someone on the back of a bike for the first time. But remember, once someone gets on the rear seat, you’re now in charge of your safety and your passenger. So get confident, and make sure you’re sturdy. Your center of gravity will change with the extra weight in the back. So take it slow, and keep everyone safe.
7. Choose The Right Motorcycle For You
Choosing your first bike is a big decision. You want a bike that you’re not going to outgrow quickly, but you also want one that is a good size for a beginner. So do diligent research, test ride multiple bikes, and take your time with a purchase. Motorcycles are everywhere, and there is nothing worse than buying a bike you’re not ready for. So take your time, and go for a ride.
8. Turn Your Turn Signals Off
Using signaling devices is imperative to motorcycle safety. As well, turning the turn signals off is just as important. Imagine driving in a lane with a motorcyclist next to you. Their turn signal is on, but they’re not moving. What do you do? Most will wait and then eventually pass by. Be sure you’re not signaling for something you will not be doing.
9. Make Sure You’re Legal
Being a legal driver should be the first step for anybody getting into riding. Once you get your paperwork in check, you’ll have to take a rider safety course. In this course, they’ll take you slowly, teach you techniques, and get your paperwork in check. As well, make sure you have insurance and your motorcycle is registered. You take a total loss if you get into a wreck and you’re not covered. Prepare for the worst, not for the moment.
10. Practice, Practice, Practice
You’re a beginner rider, and there is nothing better that you can do to prepare yourself except for practice! The more time you have on the saddle, the better you will do on the road. Go to a parking lot, practice slow turning, complicated maneuvers, and starting and stopping. Perfect the basics, then move yourself up gradually as you get better.
Final Thoughts
You’ve made it to the end of this list, and we want you to reread it. When you’re a beginner on a motorcycle, not only are you a hazard for yourself but as well a hazard for other riders and drivers on the road. Safety should always be your priority. Practicing should be your second. Remember, the more saddle time you have, the more confidence will follow. Go to a parking lot with a friend, and drive around in circles, nice and slow. Don’t rush into crazy turns, and don’t try to keep up with other riders. Stay in YOUR comfort zone. Most of all, have fun and stay safe.
Beginner Motorcycle Tips FAQ
What are two main things you should never do on a motorcycle?
There are few things that you should never do while operating a motorcycle:
Never drink and ride: Operating a motorcycle requires high concentration and coordination, and alcohol impairs these abilities. Riding a motorcycle while under alcohol is extremely dangerous and can result in severe injury or death.
Never exceed the speed limit or ride at inappropriate speeds for the conditions: Excessive speed can make it difficult to control the motorcycle and increase the risk of a crash. Therefore, it’s important to always ride at a safe speed and to adjust your speed to suit the conditions of the road and the traffic around you.
Other things you should avoid while riding a motorcycle include:
- Never ride without wearing a helmet and other protective gear.
- Never ride while distracted, such as using a phone or other electronic device.
- Never ride beyond your skill level or in conditions that you are not comfortable with.
- Never ride a motorcycle that is not in good working condition.
How much CC is suitable for a beginner motorcycle?
The size of the motorcycle, measured in cubic centimeters (cc), is generally not an essential factor to consider when choosing a beginner motorcycle. Instead, it would help if you focused on finding a motorcycle suitable for your skill level, size, and experience.
That being said, it is generally recommended that beginners start with a smaller motorcycle, such as one with a displacement of 250cc or less. These motorcycles are typically more manageable and more accessible to control than larger models, which can be more intimidating for inexperienced riders.
As you gain more experience and become more confident on a motorcycle, consider upgrading to a larger model. However, it’s important to always ride within your limits and to choose a bike that is appropriate for your skill level.
How long should I ride a motorcycle in a day?
There is no specific time limit for how long you can ride a bike in a day, as it depends on various factors such as your skill level, the type of motorcycle you are riding, and the road conditions.
However, taking breaks every few hours to rest and stretch your muscles is generally recommended, especially if you are planning a long trip. It’s essential to listen to your body and not push yourself too hard, as riding a motorcycle can be physically demanding.
Plan your route and allow plenty of time to reach your destination. This will enable you to take breaks and rest when needed rather than feeling rushed and fatigued.
Finally, it’s important to always ride within your limits and to pay attention to the road conditions and traffic around you. It’s never a good idea to push yourself to the point of exhaustion or ride in uncomfortable situations.
What’s the first thing you should do at a motorcycle crash?
If you are involved in a motorcycle crash, staying calm and assessing the situation is important. Your priority should be to ensure that you and any other injured parties receive medical attention as soon as possible. Call for emergency medical services (EMS) or have someone else call for you if you can.
If you are not severely injured and can move, you should move your motorcycle out of the roadway to a safe location. This will help to prevent further accidents and allow for easier access for emergency responders.
You should also try to gather information about the accident, including the names and contact information of any witnesses and the details of the accident itself. This information can be helpful if you need to file an insurance claim or seek legal assistance.
It’s essential to stay at the scene of the accident until the police arrive and have taken your statement. If you leave the scene of an accident, you might face criminal charges.
Finally, it’s a good idea to contact the insurance company ASAP to report the accident and begin the claims process.
What should you not say to a biker?
There are several things that you should avoid saying to a biker, as they may be perceived as disrespectful or insulting:
Don’t assume that all bikers are “outlaws” or part of a gang: Many bikers are law-abiding citizens who enjoy riding motorcycles as a hobby or form of transportation. It’s important to respect their lifestyle choice and not make assumptions about their character based on their appearance or the type of motorcycle they ride.
Don’t call a motorcycle a “bike” unless you are specifically referring to a bicycle: To many bikers, the term “bike” is considered derogatory and implies that their motorcycle is not a “real” vehicle. Instead, it’s more appropriate to refer to a motorcycle as a “motorcycle” or a “cycle.”
Don’t criticize or mock a biker’s appearance or choice of motorcycle: Bikers often take pride in their appearance and the appearance of their bike, and it’s important to respect their style.
Don’t ask a biker to do stunts or tricks: Riding a motorcycle is a serious responsibility, and bikers should not be pressured to perform tricks or stunts for the entertainment of others.
Ultimately, it’s essential to treat bikers with the same respect and consideration you would show to any other person, regardless of their mode of transportation.
