Many people want to learn how to ride a motorcycle, and it’s easy to understand why. There are lots of unique advantages that motorcycles have to offer, and many experienced riders say that the unique thrill and feeling of being out on their bikes on the open road simply can’t be beaten.
Motorcycles tend to be cheaper to own and more affordable to maintain too, making them a good choice for people on a budget, and they’re much smaller and more maneuverable than other vehicles like cars and vans, so they’re ideal for city driving and easy, convenient parking.
However, learning to ride a motorcycle isn’t always easy. It can be quite a challenge for new riders to get to grips with the various features and behaviors of a bike, understanding how the various controls work, and figuring out how to take turns, navigate traffic, and stay safe to avoid accidents.
So, if you’re just starting out or thinking about taking your first lessons and beginning your journey to learn how to ride a motorcycle, it’s wise to look for all the help you can get. This guide will aim to get you off to a good start, providing some useful tips for beginners to keep in mind.
Do Your Research
Before you even start to ride, it’s wise to carry out some research and learn a little more about the pros and cons of being a motorcycle rider, as well as looking at some different makes and models of a bike to see which one would be best for you.
The world of motorcycles is totally different from the world of cars, and if you don’t have much or any experience with that world, you might feel a little lost in the early days. Look for guides, forums, online communities, videos, and more to learn as much as you can.
Read Through Your State’s Motorcycle Handbook
The rules and regulations regarding motorcycles and learning to ride motorcycles can actually vary from state to state. Fortunately, a lot of states help to simplify the process by offering their own motorcycle handbooks.
These handbooks cover all you need to know about the right ways to learn to ride a motorcycle, as well as the correct manner of operation for licensed riders. It tells you all the steps you need to know to get your license, as well as listing the essential gear you should have before you set out too.
Take Safety Seriously
One of the downsides to riding a motorcycle is that they are widely considered to be far less safe than the likes of cars and SUVs. This is because they’re much smaller, offering way less protection to the rider. They don’t have the same sorts of safety features as other vehicles, putting riders at risk.
Motorcycle accidents are frequent and can lead to some devastating consequences for those involved, as riders are often flung from their bikes when crashes and collisions occur, colliding with the road or other cars and suffering serious injuries. You need to take safety seriously, understanding the keys to safe motorcycle riding, and always following the rules.
Invest in Quality Gear
A lot of people are drawn to motorcycles due to the fact that they’re cheaper to buy, maintain, and insure than other kinds of vehicles. However, you will have to make sure that your budget covers the costs of essential protective equipment and attire you need to ride safely.
This is especially important for learners and new riders, as you’ll be more likely to make mistakes in those early days and tip your bike over or fall off it. Be sure to invest in a quality helmet, good gloves and boots, strong leather attire to protect against road rash, and eye protection too.
Get Familiar with All the Controls
Before you actually take a seat on your bike and get off on the roads or take some classes, it’s wise to make yourself familiar with the various parts and controls of the bike. This is especially recommended for those who don’t have much of a history with motorcycles in general.
They can be quite confusing at first, and you need good hand-eye coordination and a thorough understanding of the various parts and controls in order to ride safely. Learn all about the throttle grip, front brake, rear brake, gearshift lever, and clutch lever.
Final Word
Learning to ride a motorcycle can be a richly rewarding experience, but it can also be a big challenge. Follow these tips to get off to a good start.