Master the basics of motorcycle riding: tips for beginners

Are you passionate about two-wheelers and have just obtained your motorcycle license? Congratulations! Before hitting the road, it is essential to master the key elements of motorcycle riding. This article is particularly aimed at beginner riders who wish to gain a better command of their vehicle, ensure their safety, and optimize their riding pleasure.

Carefully choose your first motorcycle and equipment

Before riding, you need to choose your motorcycle and gear by taking several important criteria into account. A good selection will allow you to better enjoy your first experiences on the road.

Select a motorcycle suitable for your beginner needs

When starting out in the world of motorcycles, it is recommended to choose a model suited to your skills. Opt for a motorcycle equipped with an engine that has reasonable power and is easy to handle, allowing you to quickly familiarize yourself with the controls and performance of the vehicle, without forgetting to consider your height and weight when choosing a motorcycle.

Invest in quality gear

Safety is paramount when riding a motorcycle, especially as a beginner. Good personal protective equipment is essential to minimize the risk of accidents. Make sure to acquire elements such as a approved helmet, a reinforced motorcycle jacket, suitable gloves, and high-top boots or shoes.

Learn the basic controls

Once your vehicle and equipment are in place, it is time to learn the essential basic controls for riding a motorcycle.

• The brakes: Gaining good control of your brakes will allow you to anticipate and react quickly to unexpected situations encountered on the road. Most motorcycles have two braking systems: the front brake, activated by a lever on the handlebars, and the rear brake, activated by a pedal on the right foot.
• The clutch and gears: Get familiar with the operation of the clutch (left lever on the handlebars) and learn to properly control your gear shifts. Also, be careful not to stall during starts and stops.
• Your gaze: Adopt a panoramic view, taking into account both the near and far environment, to optimize your anticipation and better monitor your trajectory while riding.

Develop your comfort on the road

Riding a motorcycle requires a certain level of self-confidence and comfort on the road. Here are a few tips for a good start:

• Prioritize the three points of support: When you come to a stop, it is essential to stabilize your motorcycle to avoid any accidental falls. To do this, keep both hands firmly on the handlebars while placing your right foot on the ground.
• Be mindful of your position on the seat: Adopt a comfortable and relaxed posture to more easily overcome emotions related to your first rides, such as fear or anxiety. Be aware that your body position also has a direct impact on the stability and balance of the motorcycle.
• Exercise caution on the road: Riders are particularly vulnerable in traffic, which is why it is crucial to be careful and vigilant while riding. Follow the rules of the road and maintain your distance from other vehicles.
• Avoid blind spots: It is advisable to regularly check your mirrors and learn to identify areas of low visibility (blind spots), especially near trucks and cars whose drivers may not always see motorcycles.

The golden rules for better managing turns

Turns represent one of the biggest challenges for beginner riders, but you can master them by following a few valuable tips.

1. Slow down before approaching the turn: Use the brakes and downshift if necessary to adapt to the optimal speed for the curved turn.
2. Look in the desired direction: Direct your gaze toward the point where you want your motorcycle to go, always allowing a safety margin from any obstacles encountered.
3. Lean with the motorcycle: Adopt a dynamic, slightly leaned posture in the direction of the turn. This technique will help improve the balance and stability of your vehicle when making the turn.
4. Accelerate gradually as you exit the turn: Once past the apex, gradually apply the throttle to stabilize the motorcycle and approach the straight section of the road with ease.

Enhance your skills through practice and additional training

Finally, remember that mastering the basics of motorcycle riding is primarily a matter of experience. Therefore, make sure to have plenty of practice hours, and consider taking additional courses or participating in dedicated workshops to make your riding easier and safer.

Over time, with patience and the application of the advice given here, you will quickly become a confident and self-assured rider. Safe travels!