TIPS & TECHNIQUE: Vital Notes for New Motorcycle Riders (Video)
Looking to get your very first Harley? Here’s everything you need to know from the experts.
We’ve all been there. New motorcycle riders, or those looking to get into riding, asking questions and seeking out advice. Luckily, there’s a wealth of information out there for beginners, and plenty of folks willing to help. Especially in the Harley-Davidson enthusiast community. But there’s so much to learn, it can be hard to digest it all.
This helpful video from DanDantheFireman thankfully keeps things simple and basic. There’s only three important tips to remember here, which is better than trying to retain everything at once. And we’re big believers in the K.I.S.S. theory, after all. Especially when you’re driving around at highway speeds with nothing but basic safety gear to protect you.
Dan believes that when it comes to motorcycles, there are three basic things you need to think about before throwing your leg across one.
First: Find the right fit.
The first is to simply choose the motorcycle that’s right for you. Even though you’ve undoubtedly lusted over the many sweet Harleys available for purchase, you need to find one that actually fits you. That means picking out the right model, with the right engine. In terms of V-Twins, the video recommends 650ccs or less. Both the Sportster and Street Rod are mentioned as solid beginner bikes.
Second: Cover your cabeza.
The second, and perhaps most important tip, is to get the right safety gear. Sure, those guys who fly down the highway with no helmet, a tank-top and flip-flops might look cool to some, but as Dan morbidly says, “you’ll die sooner or later because of your choice.” So, he suggests, always wear a helmet, jacket, gloves, pants and boots. And not just any old pieces of apparel from your closet. Make sure they’re all proper motorcycle-rated pieces.
Even though you’ve undoubtedly lusted over the many sweet Harleys, you need to find one that actually fits you. That means picking out the right model, with the right engine.
Third: Unlike Pink Floyd, you do need some education.
Finally, you have to learn how to ride your motorcycle (duh!). If you’ve never driven a car with a manual transmission, shifting gears on a bike might prove to be tricky. The easiest way to get proper instruction on riding is from a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF)-approved course. The classroom and field training will, as Dan says, “take someone who’s never ridden a motorcycle and give them the knowledge and experience needed to enjoy a long and safe riding career.” Plus, it’ll save you some money on your motorcycle insurance.
All sound advice. These are the basic tips you’ll need to get started riding motorcycles, but there’s obviously much more to learn. Plus, riding is something that you can always get better at. And your skills will erode over time if you don’t practice. So, quite simply, get out there and ride! And don’t be so overly confident that you think you’re above a refresher.
