Tips for First-Time Motorcycle Owners
It can be an exciting time when you’re shopping for your very first motorcycle. However, it’s also a pretty big change that should be handled with care. After all, we constantly hear about just how dangerous they can be. It’s critical that you feel confident in your ability to operate your bike safely before you hit the road. Indian Motorcycle® of Orange County has rounded up some helpful tips for first-time motorcycle owners.
If you’re still in the market for a new bike, visit our dealership near Los Angeles CA! We’re proud to serve the Inland Empire and Riverside County.
Take a Class
The biggest struggle you’ll probably face is simply learning how to ride. Fortunately, there are many ways to ensure the process goes smoothly, like taking a class. Many beginners think they can skip the class and go right to riding. This isn’t a wise idea, especially because it’s not at all similar to riding a pedal bike. There are many more intricacies involved that you’ll want to learn before you start riding on the streets. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of training programs to choose from.
In fact, many of these programs even offer a beginner’s motorcycle for you to practice on. You’ll learn many essential techniques that involve the clutch, throttle, brake control, and more. You may be able to find a program that offers a variety of classes based on your current skill level, like beginner, intermediate, and advanced. No matter how you look at it, you’ll definitely benefit from taking a class, so don’t skip it!
Practice, Practice, Practice!
Believe it or not, learning to ride a motorcycle isn’t much different than any other skill. Practice is crucial to increasing your riding ability. You might feel that it’s redundant, but it’s certainly true. Once you’ve finished your riding classes, you can start practicing.
Your first ride won’t be perfect or smooth, so don’t set your expectations too high. It’s best to start in an empty parking lot where there are no other cars around. You should be practicing your stopping by squeezing the brakes with a bit more force each time until you’re familiar with maximum braking. It can take some time to get used to the front brake contributing more to a fast stop than the rear brake does.
Use the Right Gear
Another key factor to take into consideration is your gear. You’ll need to ensure you’ve got all the right gear before you start riding your motorcycle on the road. The most important piece of gear is a helmet that’ll protect you from a head injury in the event that you take a spill.
You’ll need to protect other parts of your body as well, including your skin. Be sure to invest in a proper riding jacket and pants to protect yourself from road rash if you fall. If you want to be extra cautious, you can buy a sturdy pair of boots and gloves, too. Many riders use hearing protection because the sound of the engine combined with the harsh wind can be awfully loud. The more protection you invest in, the safer you’ll be on your motorcycle.
Keep Up with Maintenance
Your bike is a hard-working machine that requires regular maintenance to continue performing properly. Make it a point to conduct a pre-ride inspection before you head out. Keep your eye on the chain, tire tread, oil and fuel levels, and brake and turn signal lights. If anything appears to be off, you should address it before you ride. If you need assistance with parts or service after your pre-ride inspection, visit your local motorcycle dealer.
Ready to find your dream bike? Swing by Indian Motorcycle® of Orange County. Our dealership is conveniently located near Los Angeles, CA. We also serve our friends in the Inland Empire and Riverside County.