Tips for Your First Month of Riding a Motorcycle

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.

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:

• Hard Enduro
• Riding in Iceland

4. Take a motorcycle class.

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.

Here is an example of practice practice practice!

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