How to stay safe on a motorcycle – motorcycle safety tips
Staying safe on the road is a worry for all motorcycle riders, the weather, the ‘sorry mate I didn’t see you’, our own riding abilities and the kit we’ve put on to protect us. There are so many variables but there are a few motorcycle safety things from my experience for getting our on the road as safely as possible:
Stay alert – if your tired or distracted, take a break! You need to be focused
Up your skills – work on being a better rider, practice skills or get some training such as IAM Roadsmart or BikeSafe courses. Even the top riders can improve with these courses.
Kit up – your kit has a split second to save you if the worse happens so my advice is always wear it, always. And get the best kit you can afford. Go for protection over ego-styling too…I promise you converse trainers with a foot down won’t look good for long.
First aid – get some first aid training should you find yourself on an accident scene. Such as the UK Biker Down programme.
Finally…if it does go wrong, know who to turn to for help. I had a 6-year fight with the driver who hit me and so I’ve since done my research for better legal support should it ever happen again. Write down Guardian Bell and then IF [I hope you don’t] you ever need legal help, that’s who I recommend. Knowing the right people when it goes go wrong helps.
Bonus tip – get off road! Off road training brings a whole heap of skills and confidence that will 100% keep you more comfortable on the road. Check out places like Desert Rose Racing [use GIRLONABIKE22 for 10% off their training]
For more on what happened to me, while cycling, and the long recovery from the accident please see my accident story here. We know motorcycles have higher risk but they also know they are FUN! Anything you think I’ve missed? Anyone had any road accidents? Stay safe out there!
I hope this helps you motorcycle safety out on the road.
If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all.
Yessss silver finish at Valleys Xtreme. Nick Plumb (organisor) you never disappoint! Brutal. Snotty. Disgusting track, in ALL the right ways. LOVED IT!!! Here’s the adventure.
Absolutely loved it!!
Where did I come?
I won the womens!! And this time there was competiton! The legend Patsy Quick, the first female to compete and finish the Dakar Rally, was also racing….we full raced, each swiping lead momentarily, while the other battled on. But in the last 15 minutes I buzzed past and manged to hold the lead. Winning! Super proud of myself.
My hip pain was tough following being ridden into during the prologue and so I’m really proud to have pushed on! What a race.
Valley’s Xtreme
This is a solo event to find the ‘King or Queen of the Valleys’ in a grueling battle around a ten mile track at Walters Areana. Riders quality for their starting position in a 1-mile prologue on the Saturday afternoon. This prologue is a series of man-made obstacles from huge metal skips, large plastic waste pipes, boulder beds and tyre pits. This course then becomes the start of the main race, forcing riders to tackle them all again. There is an AM race followed by a PM race where the afternoon adds tougher sections for the expert and pro riders.
Valley’s Xtreme in a few words
Gnarly, wet, snotty and tough but in all the right ways. If you’re looking for a challenge to push yourself to the next level…this is it! I finished with such a high of satisfaction it was like I was on drugs. Happiness drugs!
More than just dirt bike riding and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all.
If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all.
Lapping the Island: Exploring Sardinia on a Tenere 700 Motorcycle
In Sardinia adventure and learning go hand-in-hand
It’s ironic how you feel most alive when your heart skips a few beats. We’d been warned in the morning’s training of some rocky terrain with a mix of deep sand, hard cracked slabs and loose stone but as my eyes skip ahead reading the terrain, I knew I needed to focus. A deep breath as I calmed my mind, relaxing into the bike’s rhythm and powering on. The deep sand grapples at the Tenere’s wheels, pulling, pushing. It’s a like a million little sand hands all desperate to throw me off. I roll on the throttle throwing my 62kg weight as far back as possible to let the 205kg Tenere 700 front end float.
Our rhythms settle and it feels like we’re gliding as we part the sand. My peripheral vision captures flashes of the sea crashing down below the jagged cliff tops just metres from the track. My senses are in override and I’m feeling smooth. And then bang. We hit the hidden slabs of bed rock. The wheel jumps, my body shudders. Clutching the bike with my knees we absorb, and ride on. Phew..
My Sardinia adventure Journey:
Pulling to a stop a mile later, my heart is racing, breath fast and deep, and my smile blinking huge. We were upright and my goodness what did we just ride? High fiving the guys in front our energies are ignited. Twisting back to see the others following… it’s a different scene. I spot two bikes down in the deepest patch of sand. Bars dug in, bike are like a dead weight. Watching as they draw their inner superman strength to lift in the sand, feet sliding and struggling for traction, I was very grateful to be watching and not digging holes on the Tenere 700 myself.
Learning with the Tenere 700
On a trip designed to conquer two big purposes I could see in this moment exactly why combining adventure and training was a winning concept. Earlier that day in our off-road training camp we had been guided through the art of picking up an adventure bike. There are many ways to skin a cat and it’s the same with recovering a bike, depending on the scenario and how upside-down, backwards and embedded into the terrain you find yourself. It might sound simple but so many put their backs out and don’t correctly utilise the individual bike ergonomics. Or worse never actually try lifting it until amidst remote chaos.
Stood in a circle with the Tenere 700 lying ready for the next lifting victim I quietly watched, gracefully awaiting my turn – which was in fact me trying not to go next. But to my amazement, even with my reconstructed hip, using the bar squat method it was ‘easy’. It’s one of those tasks we seem to omit training for… instead finding ourselves out in the wildness with a blinking big bike that fancies a nap and a lie down. Swear words and tears. Today’s lesson has already helped my confidence, now to stay focused so I’m not putting the lift into practice for real.
Energies high we ride on and moments later we’re shifting weight on the twisty tarmac as we continue our circumnavigation of Sardinia. As the second largest Mediterranean island it’s described as a micro-continent with its diverse landscape – making it an adventure motorcycling mecca. A wilderness of untouched landscapes, mountains, woods, plains, stretches of largely uninhabited territory, streams, rocky coasts, and long sandy beaches.
Sardinia has an incredible road infrastructure and arguably some of the best road surfaces in Europe – I didn’t see a single pothole! Add the potential to enjoy a full lap of the island in just a week, which is incredibly satisfying…it’s ADV paradise.
We enjoyed thrilling tarmacked roads to satisfy the road warrior needs, along with miles and miles of off-road pistes just begging to be explored on two wheels. It’s all about where you choose to ride. Our loop gave us a delicious blend of smooth and tight corners, cliff-side viewpoints, and straights to open the throttle – perfect for focused road riding refinement while enjoying endless breath-taking views. Intertwined with seamlessly planned tracks, rocky paths meandering into the mountains, sweeping across valley bottoms and river crossings. It’s simply breath-taking with as we hug the Mediterranean Sea.
The minds ability to adapt to the terrain was really tested with such a mix of riding in Sardinia. One minute it’s sweeping tarmac, then it’s dusty tracks, more concrete, and then sand, slippery mud and rock climbs. And then more road with pegs scrapping and throttles rolled on. With on and off-road riding having some huge similarities, there are also some big differences.
I started out as the pre corner panick-er. Ignorant of road science or any training. I’d simply grab the brakes, always either too soon wasting time or too late causing rather uncomfortable moments of total alarm. The road training camps saw a light bulb moment where I actually understood how to translate my inputs into bike / road reactions. Simply reading the corner isn’t enough. You have to be able to react and adjust at any moment. The front and back breaks, just like off road, have their own roles, their own time and place in the corner. My body, formerly a sack of potatoes on the road needed a kick in the arse to move with the road. The corners formerly seeing widened pupils become a delightful dance. Rolling from tyre wall to tyre wall on the sweeping Sardinian roads. I even felt my side abs engage from leaning the beast over in so many corners. A corner tightening up unexpectedly became a non-event. From day one to six it was nothing short of a transformation in my road riding. The repetition across the week nailed it for me.
With some of the top track racers turning to off-road to improve their skills an expedition with 50/50 on to off-road I knew it would be ideal to progress my riding in both areas. Each evening covered riding theory for the day ahead while enjoying local Italian wine. The morning brief recapped application for the day’s route and then the on and off-road training camps gave practical implementation with a watchful eye to tweak and perfect, kicking out those bad habits. The rest of the time was practice wrapped in adventure.
The hill climb
Luca our tour leader, stops the group to brief a technical hill climb. It’s rocky, jagged, rutted and water swept, and something we’re not all going to manage. We’d done the theory and build up to it, but this was a big one. As he scans around the group carefully selecting those few who have the riding skill to attempt, it was like being back at school – the popular kid selecting their favourites for their team… would I get picked? To my delight, Luca’s gaze locks on me. Vanessa, you’re up! Holy moly. Yes, oh gosh. Yes!
As I sit at the bottom watching the guys tackle the climb one-by-one, the tension inside is building. I can feel the heart pulsing in anticipation but there is a magical thing about having someone believing in you. The tour leader believed, having worked with me over the last few days, helping me gain control and confidence, he believed in me. If he believes in me, I believe in me! That’s one of my favourite things about riding with better riders, when they feel you’re capable, it’s a heck load of extra confidence to braap into something. Did I make it? I’m tickled to say, I bossed it!! Controlled, smooth and smiling! Moments like that, achieving something unexpected, that’s what tuition and adventures can enable.
A week’s expedition of amazing scenes, great company but all topped off by progressing my riding. Becoming a better version of myself on the bike while on holiday, now that’s a trip I recommend.
5 reasons a training adventure makes an ultimate holiday
1. Who doesn’t want to be a better rider?
2. Reduce your risk of injury AND bike damage by having more skill and confidence
3. Enjoy a holiday whilst getting a sense of achievement
4. It’s practice, practice, practice, accelerating the skill adoption with concentrated learning
5. You’ll meet other riders, expanding your friendships and skills hand-in-hand
Join Expedition Masters with Dainese
These are one off trips, organised by Dainese to combine improved skills, safety and one epic adventure. Previous trips include Sardinia and Iceland. As one of the largest motorcycle brands going Dainese team up with the best in riding tuition, pick the most suited motorcycle for the trip and organise everything. Included in the cost is a full Dainese adv riding outfit including AGV helmet, extensive training across the week, and a fully-inclusive trip with a support vehicle, fuel, food, accommodation, trail snacks, beer and all the local gen from meticulous planning. We had six days riding, covered roughly 1300km doing 9 hour riding days and got to see the best on and off road Sardinia has to offer. Expect to pay around €4999 per person.
Who is Vanessa?
Known as ‘The Girl On A Bike’, Vanessa took to motorcycling following a life-changing cycling accident. She’s always out and about adventuring on bikes and is on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you really want it.
Tenere 700
After seven days and 1,300 km travelling along the roads, mule tracks and most spectacular routes that Sardinia has to offer I feel comfortable saying the Yamaha Tenere 700 does exactly what is says on the tin. The Defender of ADV. Bare bones adventurer.
If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all.
It looks like a bike. Feels like a bike. Smells like a bike BUT it most definitely doesn’t handle like a bike! Welcome to the land of adventure sidecar motorcycles…I visited the Ural Experience Centre in Portugal to get some training on how to ride an adventure sidecar motorcycle… but what many of us don’t consider is that…
Sidecars have hugely different reactions, unique controls, a whole extra wheel to think about and nearly half a tonne in weight. It completely transforms the riding experience. Often described as “death traps” for these exact reasons but with the right tuition they can be an epic adv experience so I’ve decided to learn from the best with the Ural Experience Centre Portugal. But will I have the aptitude? 🤯🤞🏼
Ural Experience Centre Portugal
Why get training on a sidecar?
One of the key reasons to learn sidecars with an experienced team is due to safety. They really are like wrestling a bear at times. Rob made a fantastic demonstration of what can go wrong if you give the wrong inputs…
So what happens when you pull the front brake on an adventure sidecar motorcycle…. Certain death! This was an awesome but slightly terrifying demonstration by Rob on why the front brake needs serious respect when on three wheels. The front brake slows the bike but the momentum of the sidecar simply keeps going, forcing its weight to overtake the bike. Which basically means a very sudden change in direction – and if that happened on the road with on-coming cars…. Yikes.
Sidecars are not dangerous but when not controlled correctly they sure can be! This experience is amazing and will ensure you’re fully understanding of how to have fun safely!
So let’s talk about the Ural Portugal Experience
Here’s the full video experience, or keep reading for more details:
Giggles guaranteed – Ural adventure motorcycle sidecar expedition – part two
The Team
The Portugal centre is run by a wonderful couple, Rob and Zayne. As a pair they bring some serious years of sidecar experience to the table, so if they don’t know it, it’s probably not worth knowing. They are full of energy, buzzing to share the sidecar love and very knowledgeable in both the local area for top riding, but also in life with sidecars. We had an absolute giggle out riding, learning, and also over lovely wine with dinner.
Rob is fantastic at the tuition side, easily translating what I needed to do into processable riding inputs. He did sometimes take a somewhat serious approach, however that’s his safety conscious side working hard to ensure it’s a controlled experience. Thankfully with Emma and my sidecar capabilities progressing his training stepped up to align. They’re basically super flexible and will take the training at the pace you’re able to go. So pink flamingos in the sidecar…no problem.
Rob and Zayne running the Ural Experience Centre in Portugal
The ultimate motorcycle holiday with a friend
It’s double trouble fun! Sidecars totally blew my expectations. I honestly didn’t think it would be quite such a hoot. The bit that really makes it for me is the experience with Emma Wolstenholme. Riding up next to each other, able to chat and giggle, absorbing and sharing the adventure but also co depending on each other. I have to ensure the bike and sidecar are powered and controlled but Emma has to manoeuvre her weight to support. I need her like she needs me. It’s a wonderful experience for two, especially when one is not a rider or less into bikes. We’ve had so many giggles today!
Ural Gear Up adventure sidecar motorcycles
This is not a modern high tech refined machine… but it’s not trying to be one and it somehow doesn’t need to be one. The fun comes for the experience, the ability to ride at a slightly slower pace but with more thrill from the journey. Powered by an air-cooled 745cc pushrod boxer with 42 hp and a minimal sprinkling of modern niceties the Gear Up feels vintage in all the right ways. The engine is working, you can almost hear the pushrods and rocker arms. It’s clunk but with character, so gear shifts have to be done deliberately and sternly. You have to ride it, bond with it and take control. And that’s something I really enjoyed. You almost have to ride it like you sole it and I mean that in a good way. You’re not hurting it, but with a lower performance, older style machine, you have to push it. Work it. Use the gears. And there is a lot of fun in that. Especially as you’re sliding sideways around a dust dirt track with your sidecar pillion hanging off to the side.
Ural Gear up
It’s exciting and involving. You’re not going to get anywhere in a huge hurry and that brings a lovely simplicity to you. You have to take your time and enjoy the journey. It’s not fast, but it’s quick enough.
As a 1WD with 2WD capability machine there is some fun to have in where you can take it too. Engage the two-wheel-drive lever to lock the rear wheel to the sidecar wheel via a shaft and you have plenty of drive It’s amazing how much it pulls! Yes 2WD kills your cornering ability but as a tool to deploy when you NEED it, it’s an ace capability for the adventurer. You also have a reverse gear too if you get into trouble you can always go back the way you came. It’s also helpful in parking and manoeuvring as the unit is not exactly light – you’re looking at around half a tonne with riders and gear.
Not only is the fun for some adventures, it’s amazingly useful in everyday life. You can even get a trailer. Legally approved to take three riders… driver, sidecar monkey AND pillion… you have a three person vehicle when needed. You can also put an amazing amount in the sidecar trunk or use the sidecar space as luggage instead of passenger. Lot’s of space for grocery shops.
The specs might be old skool but the fun factor is high, and for me that’s where it matters.
You’re guaranteed a giggle with friends
I have absolutely no idea what’s going on other than insane giggles with my crazy best friend Emma, Fred the flamingo and a Ural sidecar….
You’ll be sating with Rob and Zayne in their lovely home. They have two double rooms with bathroom facilities just for you. The house is clean, homely and comforting. The best bit is the yummy home cooked food prepared by Zayne, oh and the yummy local wines.
Ural Experience Centre Portugal facilities:
Home visit accommodation
Two double rooms and a twin room
Private bathrooms
Homecooking
Pool in summer months
Breakfast and dinner onsite
Rob and Zayne’s at Ural Experience Centre Portugal
Riding terrain
With the experience aimed at new riders or experienced sidecar enthusiasts there is a huge mix of terrain on the doorstep. Our training was initially on local dirt tracks and quiet roads. Once my confidence and capability grew we went more adventurous on some pretty trick tracks and adventure runs doing some mileage
How to get there
You can fly to Lisbon airport, Portugal. You then need to get a 10 minute taxi to the train station and a 1.5 hour train ride. Rob and Zayne can collect you from there.
A Ural Experience Day is structured as a full day of one-on-one learning and riding, both for basic and more advanced sidecar riding.
Each day is divided into two, with a break for lunch.
For beginners, the morning consists of an introduction to Ural Motorcycles and learning the basic skills that you will need to handle the machine confidently. In the afternoon, you will head out on a carefully selected route including local roads and tracks to demonstrate relevant riding skills and techniques. You will start with the basics, and progress from there in-line with the experience you would like to develop.
For more advanced riders, you will head out in the morning to refresh the basics before focussing on the specific techniques and experience you would like to develop. In the afternoon you will go further riding on more varied roads, tracks and terrain, all specifically chosen to build your experience and confidence for your adventures.
The Ural Gear Up (2WD) is the model used for Experience Days. It is also possible to undertake an Experience Day on your own Ural Motorcycle if you wish to gain more specific experience, learn more about its capabilities and explore new routes.
Each of our Ural Experience Centres operators will adapt the Experience Days offer according to the rider, location and weather.
Ural Gear up
Ultimate friends holiday
Sidecar adventures
If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding, Harleys and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all.
Nerves got to me – first rally -Qatar International Desert Baja
What’s it like taking on your first rally, first road book rally and first desert race? Here’s my experience doing the Qatar International Desert Baja with QMMF. The nerves full on got to me, it was tough. But here’s more on my first rally:
That was the toughest thing I’ve ever done, bar my accident recovery. As my first ever roadbook event, first time in the desert and first time in the dunes it was definitely a dive into the deep end! The Qatar temperatures is what made it quite so brutal…with day two’s temperature peaking at 55 degrees the heat was overwhelming. Riding, focusing on the navigation, reading the terrain and trying to keep the pace up with a body battling overheating meant for an intense race. Pausing or slowing even slightly resulted in near unbearable intensity.
At one point, deep amidst the 80km of sand dunes, I had to ride 2km at a time. Focusing just on making it another 2km. And then another 2km. I knew if I stopped the heat would be worse, I also knew I was not going to quit! So I dug deep and kept going!
I’d say it was a bit of an emotional roller coaster. There is so much new information and regulations to get your head around, it was hot, a new type of terrain and a complex navigation system using road books, and did I say it’s hot!? 39 degrees and humid. HOT. I went through moments of sheer panic, stress levels escalating, anxiety and even moments questioning everything I’m doing, am I mad?? In these moments I worked to break down what I was tackling. Taking little chunks at a time, deep breaths and trying to calm my mind. I realise these emotions are normal and I’m certainly not going to be quiting! But yikes I’m nervous.
Here’s my ranking in the Qatar International Baja desert race, my first rally: 🥈 2nd place in Women’s 13th in class of 26 riders 22nd overall of 40 including moto and buggies Only 25 finished the race…! 🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆
Qatar International Baja
Shattered would be an understatement!! But I would rather be completely exhausted from the hard times that breed success and see me grow, than well rested from achieving nothing! The Qatar rally was a serious push on my body, my mental capabilities and required some serious grit to keep pushing on. I genuinely didn’t realise it was possible to sweat so much or use so much brain capacity all at once. There were moments of pain. Moments I questioned if I could make it. But fighting on meant that the satisfaction at the end was just that much more epic! I did it!
I’m on a mission to prove that I can, even with a slightly reconstructed body! No excuses! Fight on!
If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding, Harleys and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all.
This is the Energica Eva Ribelle RS and this is a big first for me…it’s the first time I’ve ridden an electric motorcycle and thought: “wow this is a motorcycle, that’s electric”. It’s no longer a strange attempt to be a bike. It’s solid, handles like a bike should and blinking heck it brings smiles! With instant torque propelling you to 60 in 2.6 secs it’s like a legal high!! Here’s my technical review of the Eva Ribelle RS from Energica.
Energica Ribelle RS
Everyone knows electric isn’t known for it’s mega range, however with ever improving battery technology we decided to mission across Italy on the Energica Eva Ribelle RS. As part of Energica week we started at the HQ and rode over to Misano for the MotoE. This was my first ride too and as you’ll see… I was impressed. And the biggest learning for me was that you really have to try electric before you say it’s not for you. There’s seriously something epic about the instant linear power….and 2.6 seconds 0-60…we’ll that’s just naughty!
I hope you enjoy. Let me know in the comments!
You have two videos to watch, the full ride adventure across Italy and then also a technical run through of the bike. See below:
Will we make it? | Electric Mission across Italy on the Eva Ribelle RS
This is an animal! Energica Eva Ribelle RS technical review – segment game changer
If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding, Harleys and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all.
Riding a motorcycle is an exhilarating experience. It is a kind of adventure on its own. The feel of the wind as you cruise along the highway, the rush of blood, the excitement. It is a freeing experience. No wonder why many pursue motorcycle riding not only as a hobby, but as a passion, a way of living.
If you want to chase your motorcycle dreams, you need to be prepared. If you don’t know how to ride a motorcycle, it’s not too late for you to take lessons, buy a motorcycle, and hit the road. With constant practice, determination, patience, and right information, you can make your dream a reality.
My first two stroke
If you are new to this hobby or passion, here are a few tips that will help prepare you for your first motorcycle riding adventure:
1. Do some research before buying your first motorcycle.
Excited on your first ride? If you don’t have a motorcycle yet, it is important that you do some research first before buying one. There are many types of motorcycles available in the market. When buying a motorcycle, here’s a big no-no: don’t buy based on price or style alone.
There are many factors to consider when buying a motorcycle. Research on the types of motorcycles appropriate for beginners. You can also visit a local motorcycle dealership near to to ask around. Better yet, if you have motorcycle-riding friends, you can ask for their advice. Just don’t buy on impulse.
2. Study the motorcycle handbook.
If you still have not secured a motorcycle license, then you will need to study the motorcycle handbook, take the Motorcycle written Test, and pass the road test. Even if you already have a license, it still helps if you review the motorcycle handbook. It contains information on motorcycle operation, motorcycle laws, gears you need to ride a motorcycle, handling mechanical problems and dangerous road situations, among others. This handbook is a lifesaver, especially for your first month of riding.
3. Buy and use proper gear.
Using the handbook as a guide, you can get an idea of what gear to buy. Motorcycle riding can be dangerous, especially for new riders as they are more prone to accidents and tipping over. Even when you are a careful rider, other riders and drivers on the road may not be. For your safety, always wear essential gears when riding. These include helmet, eye protection (if you are not wearing a full-face helmet, leather jacket, pants, boots, and riding gloves. Here is my top tips for what gear to wear for:
If you are new to riding, you need to consider enrolling in a basic motorcycle riding class. There, you will learn the essential riding skills. They can provide you with a motorcycle. This will help you get accustomed to a particular motorcycle before buying one. You will learn a lot from taking classes, especially with regards to riding skills and safety. Honda off road motorcycle school in the UK is a great option – see more here.
5. Get familiar with your motorcycle.
Whether you’re using a motorcycle provided by the motorcycle class or a motorcycle of your own, it’s important to get familiar with the motorcycle you’re riding. Riding a motorcycle takes practice, as it involves eye, hand, and foot coordination. Get familiar with the controls and functions of your motorcycle to the point that riding it would be an instinct. A few basic motorcycle controls you need to get acquainted with are as follows:
Throttle grip. This is located on the right handlebar. You just twist it to control the speed of your motorcycle. It functions similarly to a foot accelerator of a car.
Front brake. Similar to the throttle grip, this is located on the right handlebar. To apply pressure on the brake, just squeeze this gently.
Rear brake. Located on the right side of the motorcycle, the rear brake is some sort of a pedal. You need to press it gently with your right foot to brake the rear wheel.
Gearshift lever. Located on the lower left side of your bike, the gearshift lever is used to change gears when you drive.
Clutch lever, Not all motorcycles have a clutch. If your motorcycle does, it is found on the left handlebar. You need to squeeze this when changing gears.
Here are my top tips on how to start doing your own mechanics:
6. Practice.
Make the most of the motorcycle classes to practice. When you have acquired a temporary permit, practice driving on the road. After getting confident riding in a safe and controlled space, move to an area with few pedestrians and low traffic volume. Once you have gotten acquainted with the motorcycle and have become comfortable riding it, you can start riding in more congested areas.
Now that you have a license, a motorcycle, the proper gear, and the right skills, it’s time to hit the road. But make sure that you get insurance first. Remember all that you have learned from the motorcycle handbook and the riding class. Be a responsible rider and always ride safe.
This bike it definitely going to stir up some trouble in the mid-weight adventure sport category! Introducing the brand-new Tiger Sport 660 from Triumph. I had an incredible opportunity to ride the Tiger Sport 660 prototype with Triumph Global and experience it before the world even knew it was coming. After a day riding here are my thoughts on the Tiger, including why I think this bike is going to take the segment by storm! I also got to ride two rival bikes, the Yamaha Tracer and Kawasaki Versys 650, riding them both in identical conditions, on the same roads back-to-back.
Here are some of my key highlights on the Tiger Sport 660:
Triple engine more powerful and more responsive for an energetic ride, including ride by wire. Triple 660 is proven with the Trident 660 – see Trident review here.
Class leading spec – this sounds dull but it’s pretty noticeable with the British quality, attention to detail and finish with 3 colours. Plus the list of branded equipment such as Showa suspension and Nissin brakes. On paper it’s not a huge up on rivals, but in the saddle, you can feel it’s all tuned together for a superior experience.
Value for money – with a mid-market entry price and the lower cost of ownership with 10k service intervals it’s an affordable option
Versatility – with a poised upright stance the Tiger Sport 660 is comfortable and makes adding luggage or a pillion easy. I particularly like the rear luggage mounts that come as standard and are seamlessly designed into the bikes lines – no big ugly brackets
Technology – this is where it stands out particularly well over rivals, with multiple riding modes, a clear TFT display screen and smooth slip assist clutch
Confidence – seat height is 835mm with a narrow stand over. Add the chassis feel and 206kg weight, it feels solid and balanced for low-speed manoeuvrability
Tyres – it comes with Michelin Road 5s – a very well known and highly rated tyre option
Let me know in the comments what you think of the new Tiger Sport 660.
My trousers, as people often ask, are by Revolution Race and are available in mens and womens, and in a wide range of colours – https://revolutionrace.co.uk/
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If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding, Harleys and racing, following my accident, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all.
The importance of suspension broken down so even the non-mechanically minded can understand – K-Tech
A highly under valued element of the motorcycle is the suspension but there is so much jargon and tech that it can seem overwhelming. Here I chat through why suspension is so important but in a way that hopefully every motorcycle rider can understand, even those less mechanically minded. Consider it the suspension for dummy’s, breaking down the importance of suspension:
Correct weight spring
Compression and rebound damping
Inner suspension functions
Sag
I spent the day with Michael from K-Tech talking about the importance of suspension and getting my Honda CRF 450 RX set up ready for my new rally riding adventures.
For more on K-Tech see – https://www.ktechsuspension.com/
Talking the importance of suspension with K-Tech
If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding, Harleys and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all.
Graham Jarvis, the legend Extreme Enduro rider and probably the first name that comes to most riders’ minds when they think of the crème de le crème of enduro talent. And it just got better…the legend has started a series of Jarvis Signature Tours, I’ve already been to the Spanish and Welsh ones but now it’s time for some Romanian fun with Jarvis Signature Tours Romania.
If you’re after your own Red Bull Romaniacs experiences or full training for Romaniacs then Jarvis Signature Tours Romania is the place to go!
Vanessa Ruck
Set up by an absolute legend, if you want riding progression and an epic adventure this is the place to go.
Riding progression and an epic adventure GUARANTEED
Jarvis Signature Tours:
✅ global locations ✅ full tuition available ✅ suitable for ALL experience levels ✅ bikes and gear ✅ enjoy trail riding, brush up skills or BOTH!
Watch the trip here or read on:
The first thing to mention is that by going to Jarvis Signature it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re going to ride with the man himself, Graham – you can but the dates are limited and you of course pay more. I had an absolutely incredible time there even without him. Graham has years of riding experience to teach, however he’s also still a full-time professional rider and so had equipped his school with some absolutely nails riders to stand in and deliver the ultimate hard enduro coaching.
Taking your riding to the next level
Depending on your goals they’ll push you as little or as much as you like. Nail some new skills or simply enjoy some chilled riding, either way you’ll have one hell of a time.
They’ve cornered the market for guided tuition trail riding for sure and I think the tuition really is the reason to head to Jarvis. Yes, it’s an amazing experience riding in Romania, but the big push for me is the riding development. Many tour operators can give you the odd tip but being able to really push you, spot your bad habits and take you to the next level is rather unique for the Jarvis offering.
The team will push you as hard as you’re wanting to go!
Here’s a video from my other Jarvis Signature Tours experiences:
You can see how hard they pushed me, within my limits but outside my comfort zone. It was incredible.
Jarvis Signature Wales
https://youtu.be/8RdcJKAc450
Jarvis Signature Spain
Back to Romania:
Bikes
In terms of bikes Jarvis of course has his factory racing hat on, opting for a fleet of the latest Husqvarna enduro bikes from across the range of sizes. They’re made of hard enduro!
Jarvis Signature Tours with Husqvarna TE 300i bikes
Brand new Husqvarna fleet at Jarvis Signature Tours Romania
Facilities
Jarvis Romania is based on a large farm set in the rolling Romanian landscape. The large farm house provides a comfortable solace with comfortable rooms and a family feel. Enjoy a spread of breakfast options prepared on sight under the lovely terrace and hear the horses neigh in the background. There are lots of horses too as the family also run pony camps for children.
The bikes are stored in a large barn on sight with space for kit storage, keeping the mud out of your room.
Riding is a 30-40 minute drive from the farm, which the team organise with the bikes in a trailer. This enables you to start your riding in the best terrain, not having to do any road slogs to get into the depth of the Carpathian mountains. It also keeps local villages more at one with the bikes as big tours are not passing through at such a frequency. Happy locals means happy bike tours.
Jarvis Signature Tours Romania Facilities:
Gorgeous farm house accomodation
Latest Husqvarna enduro bikes
Limited kit rental available [orgnaise before trip]
Experienced hard enduro team
Onsite breakfast
Enjoy lunch at local restaurants
Access to Red Bull Romaniacs trails
Terrain at Jarvis Signature Tours
If you picture Red Bull Romaniacs then this is the terrain you’re riding! They team know all the best trails, they know previous Romanicas routes including Atom, Iron, Bronze, Silver and even the madness of Gold. If you want a Romanicas training trip or a way to experience the likes of Romaniacs riding then they is the ideal place to go.
The Romanian Carpathian mountains offer a huge variety of riding. the scenery is incredible and so is the riding. I would describe it as enduro on steroids! Take the riding nearly everywhere else on the planet and put it on steroids… hello Romania! They have different types of terrain, from beautiful high and medium mountains, big forests and green meadows, to rocky or muddy sections – and some serious hills climbs…of should I say mountain climbs. They go on an on!! So everything you need for the best guided enduro tours in Romania with Jarvis Signature Tours Romania.
Mr Graham Jarvis was of course with us too, as we know he’s a shy one, but I was really warmed to to see his energy towards the tours. He was welcoming and engaging and bloody awesome and showing me how things should be done. Tips from the king of hard enduro, that’s a winner!
The tuition is perfectly suited for ANY riding experience, from total novice through to expert. These guys are the top spec in riding capabilities and so there is something to learn for everyone.
Given that Jarvis has a busy race calendar, if you can’t get a date to ride with him I would not threat….For the very, very large majority of riders you’re going to learn as much progression from Graham’s team as you will from him as he really has employed a fantastic caliber of guys so don’t threat if you can’t get a date with Jarvis.
Riding with Graham Jarvis
How far can you push it with Jarvis Signature Tours?
A huge attraction to me here is that Graham’s team know what it takes to push your riding to the next level. That means the guys know and are familiar with putting you into terrains that can at times be a big step up for you. But it’s ok, they are right there with you! They assess your capabilities and quickly know where they can safely push you. It’s not about reckless fun as at the end of the day no one wants to come home broken, and they certainly don’t want damaged bikes. But they do know how to safely push the limits and will talk you through exactly what needs to be done.
Husky TE 300i bikes
They’ll push you as far as you want to go but within your limits
How to get there
Fly into Sibui in central Romania and the team will collect you from the airport.
In three days riding I went from totally unprepared for Red Bull Romaniacs to ready to race and feeling confident. Here’s why you need three days minimum pre Romaniacs:
Day one you realised the terrain is like nothing else you’ve ridden, it’s like you have forgotten how to ride. Getting stuck, falling, failing. But the Jarvis team are there feeding you tuition.
Day two the tuition starts to make sense, you’re adapting to the terrain, to the sheer scale of the riding in Romania. Confidence is building
Day three it all starts to click and you’re riding like a boss with confidence. Romaniacs ready!
I learned more like a few months’ worth of progression. Graham Jarvis you’ve made something special here! Just a short flight to Sibui and you’re there. This is the place to train!
Here’s some video form riding Red Bull Romaniacs the week after visiting Jarvis Signature Tours Romania:
If you’ve had any similar life challenges, then I would love to hear from you. I’d also love to know if there are any topics you’d love to see me cover! Get in touch with me via email or Instagram!
If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding, Harleys and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all.
