If you are learning to ride a motorcycle for the first time, you likely have lots of questions. Here are several tips and suggestions to help make sure your first ride is a safe and fun one.
There are some important steps you can take to make your next ride an even safer ride. First, if you haven’t done so yet, consider signing up to take a motorcycle safety course. These courses cover all skill levels, but for beginning riders they are crucial – and even mandatory in some states. In a motorcycle safety course, you will learn the most important basic skill you need to know to ride safety on the road. Most of the beginning courses start with off road practice, so that those who are brand new to motorcycle riding get some practice before doing on road riding. They will also teach you important information about safety gear (including helmets) and defensive riding techniques.
After you have completed your course, you may also want to gain some additional on road riding experience in a sparsely populated location. This is particularly important if you live in a busy town or city. This way you can gradually build up your skills before attempting often chaotic inner city riding. Besides location, also consider the time of day you will be riding your bike. Beginning riders should certainly not set out during rush hour traffic early on, but instead should aim to ride during off peak traffic hours.Also, make sure you protect yourself by making yourself as visible as possible to often unaware drivers. You should wear bright and highly visible clothing, especially during evening hours or poor weather, and also make sure your lights are functioning properly. Reflective tape can also be put on your bike and clothing to increase your visibility on the road.
Always ride defensively on the road. Keep in mind that many motorists do not know how to safely share the road with motorcycles and will not follow traffic laws or signal correctly before turning or changing lanes. In the event of a near collision or if you encounter an aggressive driver on the road, do not respond in kind. Remember that cars are much more heavy and dangerous and that if you were to have a collision it is you who will likely be hurt the most. Avoid getting into a road rage incident on your motorcycle at all costs. If needed, back off or change your lane to avoid a conflict with a motorist. Although it can be frustrating at times, always keep in mind that your safety is paramount on the road.