Motorcycle Tips for Beginners
So, you want to start riding! That's exciting! First off, to get your motorcycle license in Indiana, you must successfully complete a written knowledge exam at a BMV branch and also pass a motorcycle skills exam at an authorized Ride Safe Indiana training location. Next, you should learn the fundamentals of riding for your safety and those around you. The beginning process of learning how to ride a motorcycle is an exciting yet nerve-racking time. However, the skills you will need to ride your bike are easy to learn with practice. It will initially seem overwhelming, but eventually, they will all become automatic, and you can concentrate on building other good habits. The best advice anyone can give is to wear protective gear, which includes a helmet, gloves, boots, and jacket. Motorcycle riding can be thrilling, but you should always prioritize safety and responsible riding. Below are a few tips for beginners the team at Lake City Cycle put together.
Start With a Smaller Bike
When you're just starting, it's best to ride a smaller bike. There are a variety of reasons for this, including the fact that they are easier to handle, more lightweight, and cost less. While some may want to skip straight to the full-size touring bikes, it is important to know that smaller bikes on the market today, such as the Honda Grom, are, for the most part, totally capable and powerful enough to even handle highway riding. Build up your confidence and skills on something that is easier and safer and move up to a more powerful model when the time is right.
Take a Motorcycle Safety Course
A motorcycle safety course teaches you the basics of riding and important safety tips to help keep you safe on the road. This type of course is a class that lasts 1-3 days. It consists of several hours of in-classroom work as well as several hours of actually practicing riding a motorcycle with help from an instructor. A lot can be learned from these courses; they help give a new rider more confidence on the road. You can find a course near you by looking for approved Ride Safe Indiana providers. You will get five hours of classroom instruction and 10 hours of practical riding exercises in a controlled, off-street environment. The course finishes with a knowledge and skills evaluation. Motorcycles are provided free of charge for your use during the course, so you can get started even if you have yet to buy your bike.
Assume No One Can See You
When riding, it's always best to stay aware of what's happening around you and keep an eye out for pedestrians and cars cutting into traffic. Likewise, watch for other vehicles, pedestrians, and obstacles on the road. Long-time riders will tell you to assume you are invisible. However, by staying aware and acting as if you are invisible, you will become a much safer rider and mindful of where you're riding compared to other cars on the road.
Use Your Brakes Properly
Do you know what happens if you hit the brakes right before you go into a turn? If you are leaning on one side, the bike will stand straight and stop your maneuver instantly. This is why it is stressed in motorcycle classes to learn how to use your brakes properly, both the front and rear brakes, so that you can stop quickly and safely.
When in Doubt, Slow Down
When riding, especially as a beginner, you need to take things at your speed. Don't push yourself too hard when riding your bike. Know your limits and ride within them to stay safe. Take it slow, learn how to control your bike, and grow from there. Being a great rider is a process that takes years to complete. Slow down whenever you feel insecure about a situation, and you'll always be safe.
Head To Lake City Cycle to Start Your Riding Adventure!
Here at Lake City Cycle, we are powersports enthusiasts, and we are excited to help you experience the fun and adventure that riding can bring, but you should always do it safely. We have a great inventory of the perfect bike to start your motorcycle journey, including the Honda Grom and the Kawasaki Z125 Pro!! Our friendly and knowledgeable sales, financing, service, and parts departments are ready to offer outstanding service at every point, from assisting while making your choice to ongoing maintenance and customization. We offer everything you need to start your riding adventure, so please stop in and allow us to help you ride off into the sunset.