After getting your first motorcycle, you’re probably itching to hit the road and enjoy it. However, operating a motorcycle can be a bit more complex than driving a car—especially since you have less protection from the elements and possible accidents. Because of this, you need to know both the basics of riding and what common errors you should try to prevent. These are the top motorcycle riding mistakes to avoid and how an awareness of them can help keep you safe on your first excursion.
Accidental Stalling
When your motorcycle uses a conventional transmission, you need to accelerate slowly as you adjust the clutch. Doing so provides the appropriate amount of torque and keeps your model running smoothly. Accelerating too quickly reduces the torque present in the engine and forces it to a sudden stop. Stalling can be incredibly dangerous on a motorcycle and puts you in a vulnerable position, so make sure you practice accelerating before you’re on the road.
Using the Wrong Gear
Shifting your motorcycle into the wrong gear is also a motorcycle riding mistake you’ll want to avoid. Like some types of cars, motorcycles have different gears that correspond with how fast it’s moving. When your vehicle is at a standstill, it’s in neutral. Then, you need to move it into first gear, second, and so on as you slowly pick up speed. Using the wrong gear can cause unnecessary damage to your motorcycle’s internal components and shorten its overall lifespan.
Not Wearing Protective Clothing
Make sure you always wear protective gear and clothing whenever you’re going out on your motorcycle. Since there’s no metal frame between you and the road, any extra layer can save you from a severe injury in the event of an accident. If you’re wondering what you should be wearing when out on your motorcycle, some options include a helmet, thick gloves, a leather jacket, and boots.
Forgetting About Counter-Steering
Counter-steering is the practice of turning the bar in the opposite direction when trying to make a sudden turn at high speeds. While this might seem counterproductive to beginners, this technique allows you to turn your bike on a dime. As such, it’s one of the best ways to help you steer clear of an accident or avoid hitting someone in front of you. It’s important to note that counter steering is most effective when traveling at high speeds, so it won’t work in the same way on slower roadways.
Failing to Account For Accidents
One of the biggest mistakes a beginner motorcyclist can make, though, is to think that an accident can’t happen to them. Especially after gaining some experience, it’s easy to forget that this riding a motorcycle comes with many hazards for the rider and other motorists. For this reason, you should always have a plan in case of an emergency. Know where to seek medical attention, and have a qualified personal injury attorney on speed-dial to help you file for compensation. The more you plan out ahead of time, the better off you’ll be when you need these resources most.
Van Rundell is a writer and author who specializes in transportation, travel, guidance, health & fitness. With over 10 years of experience in the industry as a driver and an entrepreneur, he has seen it all. His tone is professional but friendly with a dash of humor thrown in for good measure. In past, he has been advising, educating and writing about transport for the public and professionals alike.
A qualified fitness instructor with over 5 years’ experience as a personal trainer and group fitness instructor, Van brings his deep knowledge of health and exercise science to his articles on health & fitness.
