As a teenager, I used to think riding a motorcycle wouldn’t be a big issue since I could ride bikes well. Guess what? I was very wrong! While pro bikers make it look smooth, easy, and fun, I found the experience scary. So, how to ride motorcycle safely? To ride a motorcycle safely, it requires more riding precision and balance. Besides, with your body being exposed, riding a motorcycle safely also requires maintaining road safety and being responsible.
Now, after all these years of riding bikes on all kinds of roads and situations, it is only fair to share some motorcycle riding tips for beginners. So hold your clutches and ride on! Because this guide to ride a motorcycle safely will help you to find pro tips on handling different riding conditions, and ready to hit the road without a hitch.
Understanding Your Motorcycle: Basics Before You Ride
Every motorcycle is different. That is why it is vital to know your bike before you even start the engine. Besides, getting familiar with the bike you are riding impacts your riding experience.
Types of Motorcycles
There are several types of motorcycles, such as cruisers, sportbikes, touring bikes, and more. Each of these bikes is designed for different riding styles. Nevertheless, as a beginner, it is best if you don’t pick a heavy bike. Sticking to something with under 600cc and 50 horsepower would be ideal.
Key Components and Their Functions
You should also know the key parts: the engine, clutch, throttle, brakes, and gear shift. Each component plays a vital role in controlling your motorcycle and how you ride. The clutch, for instance, allows you to smoothly shift gears, while the throttle controls the bike’s speed.
Pre-Ride Inspection
Another must-do is a quick pre-ride inspection. You must check the tires, controls, lights, oil, chassis, and stand. This is known as the T-CLOCS method and it is a handy checklist to ensure your bike is in the right condition. Checking these components regularly also reduces the risk of breakdowns or accidents.
How to Ride Motorcycle Safely? Checklist for Essential Gear for Safety
We have all been fascinated by motorcycle riders with cool helmets, leather jackets, gloves, and boots, right? How can you not since they make the whole thing look so cool? But you should also know that wearing this gear is more for safety purposes than just a cool appearance.
So, here is a checklist for you to ensure you have the right safety gear for riding your motorcycle.
1. Helmet: Your Lifeline on the Road
The helmet is the most important safety item for bike riders. Not only do they guard against impact, but they also shield you from debris, wind, and insects. Besides, wearing a helmet is required by all country laws. But, what kind of helmet should you wear?
The rule is to choose a DOT or ECE-certified helmet because it means the helmet meets safety standards. Going for full-face helmets is the best option as they provide protection for your entire head, including your face and chin.
Then comes another question: What is the helmet that is the right size for you? In that case, you can do a simple measurement. Keep a measuring tape at least 0.5 inches above your eyebrows, and measure around your head. You can compare the size with the measuring chart of the helmet brand of your choice and find the right one.
Also, remember that you must try it on to check the fit. If the size is right, the helmet’s eye port will rest above your eyebrows. And you will be able to fit only two fingers between your chin and the helmet.
2. Jacket: More Than Just a Cool Look
A good motorcycle jacket is more than just a style statement. It’s your armor. Leather, Kevlar, or textile jackets provide excellent protection from abrasions. You can also get yourself jackets with CE (Certified European) marks.
Look for ones with built-in armor in the elbows, shoulders, and back. These jackets not only prevent road rash but also keep you warm and protected against the elements. If you are riding in hot weather, consider getting a jacket with zippers and vents.
3. Gloves: Grip and Protection
Gloves protect your hands from injuries and improve your grip. Whether it’s hot or cold outside, wearing full-fingered gloves ensures your hands are safe during any fall and gives you better control of your bike’s throttle and brake levers. However, make sure the gloves have retention straps to ensure they don’t slip off during a crash.
4. Pants: Tough and Durable
Some people think pants don’t matter during bike rides. But what if I tell you that’s wrong? Riding pants or jeans with reinforced materials like Kevlar or something similar to the jacket material protects your legs from scrapes.
They can also protect them from burns from the exhaust pipe. Some pants come with padding at the knees and hips, adding an extra layer of defense in case of a slide.
5. Footwear: Sturdy and Safe
You have to pay better attention to your feet and their safety as they go through torture during bike rides. That’s why your footwear should have non-slip soles and cover your ankles. Motorcycle boots are designed to protect your feet, toes, and ankles from impact and prevent burns from the bike’s engine and exhaust.
"CHECK TIRES, CONTROLS, LIGHTS, OIL, CHASSIS AND STAND REGULARLY."
6. Optional Gear: Extra Safety Layers
For additional protection, consider gear like knee guards, back protectors, and riding suits. They can give you even more security on long rides or when riding in more challenging conditions.
Your 9-Step Guide to Ride Motorcycle Safely
Unlike driving a car, riding a motorcycle involves controlling a two-wheeled machine where balance, coordination, and body movement are essential. The following step-by-step guide on how to ride motorcycle safely will help you navigate the learning process with confidence and safety.
Step 1: Understand the Controls
Before you ride a motorcycle, you must know all about the basic controls so that you can react to anything promptly. This will help you to ride motorcycle safely on the road. There are 5 different control gears and here is how they work.
- Clutch Lever (on the left handlebar): This is used to engage and disengage the engine’s power to the rear wheel.
- Throttle (right handlebar twist grip): Controls the engine speed.
- Front Brake Lever (right handlebar): Controls the front brake, crucial for stopping.
- Rear Brake Pedal (right foot): Controls the rear brake, essential for balanced braking.
- Gear Shift Lever (left foot): Used to change gears. Most motorcycles have a shift pattern of first gear down, then neutral, and the rest of the gears up.
The easiest way to remember these is that the right side controls braking and accelerating. On the other hand, the left side of the bike is for gear controls.
Step 2: Mount the Motorcycle Properly
Before you can start riding, you need to know how to properly get on your bike. Approach the motorcycle from the left side (as the kickstand is usually on the left). Hold both handlebars and swing your right leg over the seat.
Ensure both feet are firm on the ground, and the bike is balanced. If your bike is heavy, keep the kickstand down until you are ready to ride.
When seated, your feet should comfortably touch the ground. If not, you might need a different seat or even a smaller bike.
Step 3: Start the Motorcycle
Now that you’re comfortably seated, it’s time to start the engine. Insert the key into the ignition, set the kill switch to “On,” and pull in the clutch. Then press the starter button to ignite the engine. When the engine kicks, you’ll hear a loud roar, which is normal.
Before taking off, make sure the bike is in neutral by checking the gear indicator (if available) or rocking the bike slightly. However, remember to check your mirrors and blind spots before starting to ensure your surroundings are clear and safe.
Step 4: Balance and Posture
Maintaining balance on a motorcycle is key to a smooth ride, and that begins with your posture. How can you do that? Well, that’s pretty straightforward (literally).
Just keep your back straight, elbows slightly bent, and arms relaxed. Your grip on the handlebars should be firm but not too tight. It helps with easy steering and maneuvering.
Also, keep your knees close to the fuel tank and your feet firmly on the footpegs. Posture affects how well you control the bike, so avoid leaning forward excessively.
Step 5: Engage the Clutch and Shift Gears
To start moving, pull in the clutch lever with your left hand and press down on the gear shift lever with your left foot to put the bike into first gear. Slowly release the clutch while simultaneously twisting the throttle gently to give the bike power.
This coordination takes practice, but with a little patience, you’ll master the “friction zone”. It’s the point where the clutch engages the engine and starts moving the bike forward.
If the bike jerks or stalls, it means you’re releasing the clutch too quickly or not giving enough throttle. But don’t let that worry you much. You just need to practice this balance regularly until it feels smooth.
Step 6: Accelerating Smoothly
Once the bike is moving, it’s time to accelerate. Twisting the throttle gently will increase the speed, but be careful not to overdo it. Start slow, and gradually twist the throttle to build speed.
Always keep two fingers on the front brake lever, ready to stop if necessary. As you gain confidence, you can increase your speed, but for now, focus on maintaining a steady pace. It is best if you start practicing this step in a quiet area or parking lot where there’s little traffic.
Step 7: Turning and Cornering
Turning is a crucial skill for any rider, and it involves both steering and leaning. For slow turns, use counterweighting. But how can you do that?
Lean your body slightly away from the turn while turning the handlebars in the direction of the turn. Keep your eyes on the point where you want to turn and move your bike according to the direction.
When approaching a turn, do the following:
- Slow down by gently applying both brakes.
- Look where you want to go, not at the ground.
- Lean slightly and turn the handlebars in the direction you’re going.
Avoid braking mid-turn, as this can make the bike unstable. Moreover, make sure to slow down before entering the curve, keeping your bike speed around 10 mph. For higher-speed turns, you’ll need to lean into the turn with the bike.
Step 8: Braking and Slowing Down
Motorcycles have two brakes: the front brake and the rear brake. Always use both brakes together for maximum stopping power. Apply the front brake gradually (never grab it suddenly), and press the rear brake pedal at the same time.
Step 9: Turning Off and Dismounting
To kill the power of the bike, just switch off the ignition and make sure the bike is secure. If your bike has a steering lock, use it to add an extra layer of security. When dismounting, stand firmly on the left side, swing your right leg over the seat, and carefully step away from the bike.
Advanced Riding Techniques
Once you’ve mastered the basics of motorcycle riding, diving into advanced techniques can take your riding skills to the next level. These strategies enhance your control, precision, and overall performance on the road, especially in more challenging conditions. Read “The Ultimate Motorcycle Cornering Techniques for Safe Bike Riding”, to know more about motorcycle cornering techniques. You can also checkout “Motor Mystery” Facebook Group for more car and bike related information.
Counter-Steering
Counter-steering is a crucial technique for smooth cornering at higher speeds. It might sound odd, but to turn right, you gently push the right handlebar forward. And to turn left, you push the left handlebar.
This method uses the bike’s momentum to lean into turns, providing more stability and control. It’s especially useful on sharp corners or twisty roads and curves, where precise steering is needed.
Trail Braking
Trail braking involves gradually easing off the front brake as you enter a turn while still applying some pressure. This advanced technique allows you to control your speed more effectively while maintaining grip through the turn.
It is particularly helpful in tight or unexpected corners. During such situations managing speed while maintaining control can prevent you from drifting wide.
Body Positioning for Performance Riding
Experienced riders often shift their body weight to enhance control during cornering or high-speed riding. Leaning into turns while keeping your upper body aligned with the bike’s axis helps distribute weight evenly.
As a result, it improves traction and stability. It’s a technique used in performance and track riding to maximize control, especially during fast or sharp turns.
Additional Tips for Riding Motorcycle Safely
So far you have learned the most important aspects of riding a motorcycle. How you must also know some more things to ensure riding a bike without much worries. So, here are some more tips for you!
1. Riding in Traffic
Riding in traffic is a complex process, especially if you are a beginner. That’s why it requires extra awareness.
- Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, especially when following cars.
- Use your mirrors frequently and always check your blind spots before changing lanes.
- Ride in the center of your lane to maximize your visibility to others.
- Signal your intentions early, and be predictable with your movements.
2. Riding at Night
To stay safe while riding at night, ensure your bike’s lights are bright and clean to enhance visibility. It is safe to use reflective gear to increase your presence on the road. You can also manage glare from oncoming headlights by looking slightly to the side. Most importantly, stay alert as reaction times are reduced in low light conditions.
3. Handling Emergencies
Every rider should be prepared for emergencies and unpredictable situations like skidding, obstacles in the road, or sudden stops. And here’s how you can tackle these situations:
- Skidding: If you skid, stay calm and avoid panicking. Try putting more weight on the rear wheel to handle skidding. Keep the bike upright and gently release the brakes to prevent it from sliding forward.
- Obstacles: Always scan the road ahead for hazards like potholes, debris, or animals. If you encounter an obstacle, try to avoid it by steering around it. Make sure to slow down before making any major movement.
- Sudden Stops: In case of an emergency stop, apply both brakes smoothly but firmly. Keep your body weight centered and your eyes forward to maintain control.
4. Parking the Motorcycle
Find a flat, stable surface and approach the spot at a slow speed to park your motorcycle. Use your rear brake to control the bike’s speed. Once stopped, put the bike in neutral, switch off the engine, and lower the kickstand. Finally, gently lean the bike onto the kickstand to ensure it’s stable.
Important Motorcycle Safety Tips for New Riders
Staying safe should always be your top priority when riding a bike, especially if you’re a new rider. Following proper safety measures will keep you protected and allow you to enjoy the ride with confidence. That’s why make sure to follow these safety tips all the time.
1. Wear Protective Gear at All Times
The most basic yet critical step to staying safe on a motorcycle is wearing proper protective gear. Don’t forget other gear like jackets, gloves, boots, and pants, which help prevent serious injuries in case of a fall. It also improves your comfort, giving you better control of your bike by protecting you from wind, rain, and debris.
2. Stay Visible to Other Drivers
Motorcycles are smaller than cars, making them harder to spot. So, always ensure you are visible to other drivers by wearing bright or reflective clothing and using your bike’s lights, even during the day. Position yourself in a lane where you are most likely to be seen.
Ride in the center or left side of the lane rather than too close to the curb or other vehicles. This not only increases your visibility but also gives you more room to react.
3. Keep a Safe Distance
Keep a safe distance to have enough time to react to sudden obstacles. The rule of thumb is to maintain at least a two-second gap between you and the vehicle riding ahead of you.
4. Ride Defensively
Always expect the unexpected and assume that other drivers do not see you. This mindset encourages defensive riding, which is essential for avoiding accidents. Anticipate potential hazards, avoid riding in blind spots, and always be prepared to react.
5. Avoid Riding in Bad Weather
Bad weather conditions, such as rain, fog, or ice, can make riding dangerous due to reduced visibility and slippery roads. If possible, avoid riding in such conditions. However, if you must ride, slow down, increase your following distance, and be extra cautious when braking or turning.
6. Avoid Riding Distracted
A study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows that about 41% of motorcycle accidents happen due to distracted driving. That’s why it is advised to not use the phone, drive under the influence, or any other kind of distraction.
7. Don’t Overestimate Your Skills
It’s easy to get carried away when you start feeling confident on your bike. But it is best you don’t overestimate your abilities. Stick to roads you’re comfortable with, and avoid high-speed riding or complex maneuvers until you’ve gained more experience.
8. Regularly Inspect Your Motorcycle
Before every ride, give your bike a quick inspection. This includes checking tire pressure, oil levels, lights, and brakes. The T-CLOCS method, as I have mentioned before, should help you ensure that your bike is in top shape.
6 Common Mistakes New Riders Make
When you get over-excited about riding a motorcycle, it’s easy to make a few rookie mistakes. So, let’s take a look at some common blunders and how you can avoid them.
1. Skipping Practice
Feeling too cool to practice? Think again! Just like learning to play guitar or cook a perfect meal, motorcycle skills take time to master.
Skipping practice might land you in a situation where you’re not as slick as you thought. Instead, put in the hours, hit the parking lot, and practice those turns and stops like a pro.
2. Overspeeding
Overspeeding can quickly turn into a nightmare. So, make sure to keep your excitement in check. The road isn’t a racetrack, and speeding through it is a fast ticket to trouble. Stick to the limit and enjoy the ride safely.
3. Neglecting Maintenance
Motorcycles, like pets or plants, need love and care. Neglecting maintenance is like skipping meals and it’ll catch up with you. Regularly check your bike’s tires, brakes, and fluids. A well-maintained bike is a happy bike, and a happy bike keeps you safe!
4. Tailgating
Tailgating is a big no-no. Motorcycles need more space to brake than you think. Give yourself plenty of room to react because bumper-to-bumper riding isn’t cool on two wheels.
5. Turning Without Warning
Surprise turns may work for magicians, but not for riders. Always signal your intentions to avoid startling others and yourself (that’s right)! What’s the point of having those blinkers if you don’t use them properly?
6. Overloading the Bike
Packing your bike like a camel in the desert? Don’t do that! Overloading throws off your balance and handling, which can lead to serious situations. Keep the weight light and evenly distributed, or you might end up wobbling more than you’d like.
Importance of Regular Practice and Continuous Learning
Mastering motorcycle riding doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a journey that demands consistent practice and a commitment to learning. Let’s explore why regular practice and ongoing education are key to becoming a skilled rider.
Why Frequent Practice Matters
Frequent practice sharpens your skills and increases your confidence on the road. The more time you spend riding, the more familiar you become with your bike’s handling, braking, and maneuvering.
As a result, over time, regular practice transforms muscle memory. Ultimately, it allows you to react instinctively to sudden changes or road hazards. Plus, it boosts your comfort level, helping you enjoy the ride safely and confidently.
Taking a Motorcycle Safety Course
Enrolling in a motorcycle safety course, whether beginner or advanced, is a smart investment. These courses provide hands-on tutorials, guiding you through essential techniques like braking, cornering, and emergency maneuvers.
Keeping Up With Motorcycle News and Updates
Motorcycle technology and safety regulations evolve constantly. You can try following the latest industry news, safety tips, and road rules from time to time. Whether it’s advancements in bike technology or updates on helmet standards, staying up to date ensures you’re riding with the best knowledge and tools available.
EndNote
Riding a motorcycle is cool and fun. However, even the tiniest mistake or carelessness can easily turn it into your worst nightmare. That is why new riders should always prioritize safety by wearing the right gear, regular practice, or staying informed.
When you are riding a bike on the road, you have certain responsibilities. By practicing safe riding habits, you not only protect yourself but also enhance your overall riding experience. So, make safety a lifelong priority, and you’ll enjoy the open road for years to come.
