Although a lot of people consider riding a motorcycle as a dangerous and challenging activity, motoring enthusiasts will tell you that there is no experience like it. Riding a motorbike instead of driving around town offers better fuel efficiency as well as more fun. Like any other new skill, learning to ride a motorcycle requires some core competencies. You should focus on taking the necessary precautions, including maintaining the appropriate space between other vehicles, wearing your helmet, gaining confidence in riding, maintaining your motorcycle and keeping your speed at reasonable levels.
One of the most important things you can do in order to familiarize yourself with your motorcycle is to take a safety course. While many states require taking a safety course in order to obtain a motorcycle license, we think that it helps you learn new safety and riding techniques. If you have obtained your license, you can start by getting familiar with the requirements, as well as the rights and laws of riders in your area.
Once you are informed about the rules, you have to understand better how your motorcycle works. A skillful motorcyclist knows the weight and workings of his bike, and he can control it easily. Motorbikes include these essential components: gear shifter, clutch, accelerator, brake and fuel gages. Before riding your bike, you should learn how all these necessary components function. Ask an experienced friend, or motorbike instructor to walk you through those functions. Having someone to guide you through the basics is very important when you are inexperienced. He can also help you get comfortable sitting as well as standing on the bike.
Once you know all the necessary basics it is time to start riding. Select an isolated street in your neighborhood, where chances of a vehicle passing are minimum. Another good idea is to go to a parking lot. Either way, take the opportunity and start practicing braking, turning, accelerating, parking as well as starting.
If you have followed all of the above steps very carefully, you are ready to ride. Congratulations. You will find that riding is an amazing experience as long as you keep you speed within reasonable limits. Motorcycles are meant to be driven like cars, which means maintaining their position on the road and passing other vehicles only when it is appropriate. Save turning and taking off for the open road. Also, when in traffic, maintain your focus on the road since losing your focus can easily result in a serious accident. Try to keep the necessary distance and be aware of the vehicles around you. Last but least, remember that riding- when done properly- can be an unforgettable experience so enjoy every minute of it.