Motorcycle Beginners
Ok, let’s face it, motorcycles are cool. They look great, you get to wear sweet clothes when riding, and there is nothing quite like the feeling of riding your bike on the roads or trails. For beginners, you really need to take some time to get used to being on your bike—you need to be comfortable with how it handles, the speed of the bike, balancing on turns, and knowing the rules of the road. Without that knowledge, instead of looking cool, you could look like a fool. Some basic tips.
With respect to the slight variations of different types of motorcycles, the basic methods of starting a bike are quite similar. Turn the key in the ignition. If the bike has a fuel petcock, turn it on. Then make sure that the bike is ready—all necessary switches turned on, expand the choke, and ensure the bike is set in neutral. Let the bike warm up a bit before taking off.
You need to practice shifting gears on a motorcycle. While it will eventually very easy, you need to get a feel for the shifting process, and the coordination necessary to perform the actions. If you have any questions, do some research, or ask an experienced rider before you buy the bike. To shift gears, put some pressure on the clutch, while at the same time reducing pressure on the throttle, and use your foot to engage the gear shifter. Yes, it’s pretty simple, but most people struggle when they first start to ride.
You should also take some time to practice handling your bike, or take a rider safety course. Always respect the rules of the road, and be vigilant to spot potential trouble, whether it’s another driver, debris in the road, or being aware of road conditions. Focus is very important for all motorcycle riders.
Have fun on your bike. Once you get used to it, you’ll be out on the road looking cool.