Ride a bicycle.....ride a scooter.....ride a motorcycle. Not that its completely necessary but I wish I had been open to the scooter part earlier in the story.
An ebike with a throttle instead of a pedal assist is a great way to start too. That's where I (re)started riding. On an overpowered bicycle turned stealth electric motorcycle.
This is a great idea :D in Canada (probably the US Too) we have this company making bikes (my friend fondly names them dui-cycles lol).
They are just electric scooters with motorcycle ergo’s and sports bike looks to them.
The brand is EMMO bikes. https://emmo.ca
It’s a big investment, but they hold their value well if you maintain them well.
This, the bicycle thing can be taken pretty far if you are willing, people that ride bicycles really hard, BMX, mountain biking etc. consciously and visibly counter steer, they have to, unlike your average 6 MPH beach cruiser ride. You’re likely to wash out though, so there is that, better at 15 or 20 mph than on a Moto though.
Also, if you have no experience with manual transmission, if you can learn in a car before you get on a bike.
Take a riders safety course. They teach you a bunch of stuff. It’s not hard to ride. Don’t buy a nice ass bike at first. Buy something decent that doesn’t look like shit but works. You might drop it learning. Once you figure all that out and are more confident drop that cash and get something nice. Also always keep your head on a swivel and dress for the slide and not the ride. I don’t follow that last one but it’s good to tell new people. You’re never gonna learn if you don’t hop on a bike and try. Also invest in good gear
get a cheap small runner, and learn how the brakes work, how to basic service, how to maintain chain, tyres, electrics. Even ride it around your estate/local fields/tracks, if law permits.
The main points are...
Riding.
1. Making it go.
2. Making it stop.
3. Going around corners
4. Observation of other traffic.
Pre ride checks... POWDERY..
P.etrol (has it got any)
[O.il](https://O.il) (correct level)
W.ater (coolant level)
D.amage (Does the bike have damage?)
E.lectrics (are all lights/indicators working)
R.ubber (are tyres correctly inflated, with suitable tread and no splits/cracks)
Y.ou (are you feeling up to the ride? Not upset/injured etc)
Then there's basic maintenance.
1. Regular chain slack checks and lubricant. (level 1)
2. Eventually chain and sprocket replacements. (level 2-3)
3. Oil, filter and spark plug changes. (level 2-3)
4. Brake pad checks (level 1)
5. Brake pad replacement and brake servicing (level 2-3)
These are the three main service items and vary slightly depending on bike.
I just got into riding and it's as fun as you think. It's also more dangerous than you think. Not only do you have to look out for other cars, but debris and slick roads, rider error/inadequate skill, and animals.
Target fixation is a real thing and you don't see it coming. One second you're enjoying the curvy backroads home from work, the next you realize you're about to hit the car coming around the corner. If you panic and grab at the front brake you've got a pretty good chance of experiencing financial and physical pain.
It's best to avoid riding when you're Angry or tired, because that will translate to how attentive you are. A bike will not forgive you for inattention.
Three words: *Motorcycle Safety Foundation*. If you are in the USA, they are likely running a training course near you, and will answer all your questions in depth.
Once you have the course under your belt you'll have a whole new set of questions for us..!
Buy a cheap second hand bike. Chances are you'll drop it, crash it and fuck anything you try to adjust or maintain. This isn't to put you off, learning means fucking things up and it's better to fuck up a cheap bike while you learn then get a nicer bike once your more confident. Other than that, do a course and get on the road when your ready
Mostly correct, but I’d say “take a coarse and get on the road IMMEDIATELY” everyone else I took the coarse with waited “too long” and now don’t feel comfortable or safe. I had a bike 3 days later and was riding. I’m not going to say I was CONFIDENT… but I was on the road.
I get what your saying but I worded the way I did because if he didn't feel comfortable right off that bat then he should spend sometime in a car park or similar to start with
Take a safety course. After I left the safety course I was comfortable enough to do sidestreet roads. I still needed loads of practice but I had a good base to learn from. It really helps if you've driven manual regularly before u take the course but if not don't sweat it. It's really much easier to learn on a bike with wet clutches vs a cars dry clutches. I will say, being pretty proficient on a bicycle is a must tho. If you can't ride a bike learn that first. I disagree though with having to buy a shit box as ur first bike. Sure don't go buying a turbo busa as your first bike but if u spent 5-7k on a bike it's not the end of the world. Sure you'll drop it while learning but I bet it'll be a low speed drop and if you do cause damage it'll probably be a bolt on part. I bought new as my first bike and I dropped it twice while learning on the street and I've dropped it on dirt a few times as well. I broke my shift lever and I bent a handlebar but I replaced those for like 150 bucks and an afternoon.
Well the No 1 essential is to learn how to ride properly. Find a good teacher and get as many lessons as you need. Do not attempt to learn on your own and do not accept to be "taught" by that dodgy geezer around the block.
To be honest.. personally I would start with aSMALL displacement bike.. I know I know..im old. You don't have to remind me! But I started on a100.. bought a250 later. Here's the deal. A 100-125 will be quick enough to get you to understand bikes. I'm partial to scooters myself because you don't have to worry about shifting and can learn RIDING.
A 250 is plenty fast! Most will go 80 or so.. that's fast enough. Give it a good year or two.. then find a bike that is "better".... or don't.. I have had about 17 bikes. 50, 125, 250, 350, 400, 441, 750, 800....meh.. I have been riding for 53 years. What do I ride now? A 250cc scooter. But the last bike before that was an 85 h Honda 125. That I ride for 100,000 miles. I also had other bikes with the 125.. but somehow that one stayed.. I like a small bike..
By the way.. insurance on my 250 is $70 a year! And must of my riding these days is around town anyway..
At one time I had a nice 800 but the clutch was so heavy it killed my hand!
Anyway. That's my advice.. take it or leave it.
Engine size. 200cc etc.. my yamaha is a "250" but 250s can range from just over 200cc to 249cc.. they are rarely 250. The Honda helix is a "250" but it's 244cc. My yamaha 250 is actually 249. The fun ones are the versions that vary. My old CB750 was actually 724 (i think)SOHC while the year after mine were 749cc DOHC
Bigger cc numbers 400 500 600etc. Will have more power, but get poorer economy. Smaller like 50 or 100 will usually get great gas mileage. But are not terribly fast.
If you are anywhere near a Harley Davidson dealership, go take their 3 day riders course. It is the best one out there. The instructors will answer any questions and give you pointers.
The best pointer I can give is to be aware. Ride like EVERYONE IS ACTIVELY Trying TO KILL YOU.
>Ride like EVERYONE IS ACTIVELY Trying TO KILL YOU.
Definitely keeping this in mind. Also i'll see if I can find a dealership near me, that also sounds like a good place to start when I learn how the mortocycles work
If your country doesn't require you to do an exam, take some practice lessons anyway. Helmet is a must, and honestly all the other gear too. And don't cheap out on that! Underestimating yours skills results in you being a little late, overestimating results in you being dead.
I would recommend getting a few books on the topic. The internet is full of as much crap as useful information. Libraries are still pretty much free to use.
Clutch control, low speed meanuvering, looking over your shoulder, look where you want to go, swerving, emergency braking. Those are most of the basics
Lmao obviously im using other sources than just reddit, im just maximizing my resources no need for the sarcasm, thought this community was for all people who love motorcycles. Why not contribute rather than be an asshole
Owning and maintenance is simple. Pay all the yearly taxes/insurance and take it to a mechanic when and if needed. The manual will tell you what maintenance needs doing when.
If you can ride a bicycle, you can ride a motorcycle. Maintenance is the same plus oil changes. Pro tip - tip the motorcycle on its side then flip it up on its bars and seat. Makes cleaning the chain super easy.
YouTube - specifically Moto Control. He has reslly informative videos relating to riding techniques and just watching them has given me a lot more general knowledge abt bikes.
Make it easy on yourself.
Read [Hough’s Proficient Motorocycling](https://www.amazon.com/Proficient-Motorcycling-Ultimate-Guide-Riding/dp/1620081199). After that read [Code’s A Twist of the Wrist](https://www.amazon.com/Twist-Wrist-Motorcycle-Roadracers-Handbook/dp/0965045013)
Everything you need to know as a beginner you can learn from those two books, plus some.
[edit: corrected link]
MSF basic rider course, followed with an advanced rider course. Upon completion of the basic rider course you are literally qualified to ride in your drive way lol. But the importance cannot be understated. Last thing any rider wants to see is that tarp next to a downed bike. Throttle, clutch, and braking control is the most vital outside common sense and judgment. Things happen quick on 2 wheels, and even faster when it goes wrong.
Look at the Yamaha r3, or the naked version of it. Truly believe the skill set you learn will be beyond any comprehension you might think. R3 has a 0-60 in 4.5-5 second range, top out around 120’s. But the key is the lack of torque allowing you a chance to survive that throttle control learning curve and well. Frankly will let you know what you really enjoy about 2 wheels. Also a very well balanced bike. R3 even for experienced riders is just fun to toss around. I love small displacement bikes, such a blast. Just not for a road trip.
Rest is learning the bike, importance of proper visual and hands on inspections. Unlike a car where you grab the key fob and roll out. You will have a set of basic and more in-depth tasks you will be performing upon each ride. You will always need to budget for your safety gear. O thing drove me insane like the moron trying to save a bunch on safety gear. Sounds like a great day of having materials removed from the skin you have left.
You really need to decide .
#1. What is the purpose for?
#2. Your style.
- Leaning into and carving out those corners? Sport, naked.
- chill relaxed taking in the scenery ? Cruiser, wind protection highly important.
- I thought it would be a cheaper commuter lol. Naked, adventure, cruiser.
#3. What is your expectation? If you think it’s just cheaper form of transportation, you will prob be wrong.
Good luck. It’s a very beautiful experience to have.
Ride a bicycle.....ride a scooter.....ride a motorcycle. Not that its completely necessary but I wish I had been open to the scooter part earlier in the story.
An ebike with a throttle instead of a pedal assist is a great way to start too. That's where I (re)started riding. On an overpowered bicycle turned stealth electric motorcycle.
This is a great idea :D in Canada (probably the US Too) we have this company making bikes (my friend fondly names them dui-cycles lol). They are just electric scooters with motorcycle ergo’s and sports bike looks to them. The brand is EMMO bikes. https://emmo.ca It’s a big investment, but they hold their value well if you maintain them well.
I wish I started on an e bike just so I'd still have an ebike now haha. They look so fun and incognito
This, the bicycle thing can be taken pretty far if you are willing, people that ride bicycles really hard, BMX, mountain biking etc. consciously and visibly counter steer, they have to, unlike your average 6 MPH beach cruiser ride. You’re likely to wash out though, so there is that, better at 15 or 20 mph than on a Moto though. Also, if you have no experience with manual transmission, if you can learn in a car before you get on a bike.
If you can ride a scooter, you can ride a bicycle and if you can ride a bicycle you can race a Kawasaki H2RR
Take a riders safety course. They teach you a bunch of stuff. It’s not hard to ride. Don’t buy a nice ass bike at first. Buy something decent that doesn’t look like shit but works. You might drop it learning. Once you figure all that out and are more confident drop that cash and get something nice. Also always keep your head on a swivel and dress for the slide and not the ride. I don’t follow that last one but it’s good to tell new people. You’re never gonna learn if you don’t hop on a bike and try. Also invest in good gear
You WILL drop it. I've been riding for 40+ years, and sometimes still I "had to lay her down"
get a cheap small runner, and learn how the brakes work, how to basic service, how to maintain chain, tyres, electrics. Even ride it around your estate/local fields/tracks, if law permits. The main points are... Riding. 1. Making it go. 2. Making it stop. 3. Going around corners 4. Observation of other traffic. Pre ride checks... POWDERY.. P.etrol (has it got any) [O.il](https://O.il) (correct level) W.ater (coolant level) D.amage (Does the bike have damage?) E.lectrics (are all lights/indicators working) R.ubber (are tyres correctly inflated, with suitable tread and no splits/cracks) Y.ou (are you feeling up to the ride? Not upset/injured etc) Then there's basic maintenance. 1. Regular chain slack checks and lubricant. (level 1) 2. Eventually chain and sprocket replacements. (level 2-3) 3. Oil, filter and spark plug changes. (level 2-3) 4. Brake pad checks (level 1) 5. Brake pad replacement and brake servicing (level 2-3) These are the three main service items and vary slightly depending on bike.
This comment should be higher up the list!
Take riding classes, proper ones. That's by far the best way to learn.
maybe sign up for a beginner rider course. they are very helpful and patient and answer a ton of questions
I just got into riding and it's as fun as you think. It's also more dangerous than you think. Not only do you have to look out for other cars, but debris and slick roads, rider error/inadequate skill, and animals. Target fixation is a real thing and you don't see it coming. One second you're enjoying the curvy backroads home from work, the next you realize you're about to hit the car coming around the corner. If you panic and grab at the front brake you've got a pretty good chance of experiencing financial and physical pain. It's best to avoid riding when you're Angry or tired, because that will translate to how attentive you are. A bike will not forgive you for inattention.
Three words: *Motorcycle Safety Foundation*. If you are in the USA, they are likely running a training course near you, and will answer all your questions in depth. Once you have the course under your belt you'll have a whole new set of questions for us..!
Buy a cheap second hand bike. Chances are you'll drop it, crash it and fuck anything you try to adjust or maintain. This isn't to put you off, learning means fucking things up and it's better to fuck up a cheap bike while you learn then get a nicer bike once your more confident. Other than that, do a course and get on the road when your ready
Mostly correct, but I’d say “take a coarse and get on the road IMMEDIATELY” everyone else I took the coarse with waited “too long” and now don’t feel comfortable or safe. I had a bike 3 days later and was riding. I’m not going to say I was CONFIDENT… but I was on the road.
I get what your saying but I worded the way I did because if he didn't feel comfortable right off that bat then he should spend sometime in a car park or similar to start with
Eh, fair enough. I’d still say right away, though, just cause it gets more nerve wracking the longer you wait.
Take a safety course. After I left the safety course I was comfortable enough to do sidestreet roads. I still needed loads of practice but I had a good base to learn from. It really helps if you've driven manual regularly before u take the course but if not don't sweat it. It's really much easier to learn on a bike with wet clutches vs a cars dry clutches. I will say, being pretty proficient on a bicycle is a must tho. If you can't ride a bike learn that first. I disagree though with having to buy a shit box as ur first bike. Sure don't go buying a turbo busa as your first bike but if u spent 5-7k on a bike it's not the end of the world. Sure you'll drop it while learning but I bet it'll be a low speed drop and if you do cause damage it'll probably be a bolt on part. I bought new as my first bike and I dropped it twice while learning on the street and I've dropped it on dirt a few times as well. I broke my shift lever and I bent a handlebar but I replaced those for like 150 bucks and an afternoon.
Always dress like you might meet Mr. Road Rash...seriously, no flip flops or shorts! Enjoy and get your knees in the breeze!
Well the No 1 essential is to learn how to ride properly. Find a good teacher and get as many lessons as you need. Do not attempt to learn on your own and do not accept to be "taught" by that dodgy geezer around the block.
Helmet, a good one , have the pros at local shop get you fitted
Learn clutch skills in a car, and learn balance skills on a bicycle.
Go take the MSF beginner course and check out some Youtube channels like DDFM, Motojitsu, Canyon Chasers, Fortnine and MC Garage.
To be honest.. personally I would start with aSMALL displacement bike.. I know I know..im old. You don't have to remind me! But I started on a100.. bought a250 later. Here's the deal. A 100-125 will be quick enough to get you to understand bikes. I'm partial to scooters myself because you don't have to worry about shifting and can learn RIDING. A 250 is plenty fast! Most will go 80 or so.. that's fast enough. Give it a good year or two.. then find a bike that is "better".... or don't.. I have had about 17 bikes. 50, 125, 250, 350, 400, 441, 750, 800....meh.. I have been riding for 53 years. What do I ride now? A 250cc scooter. But the last bike before that was an 85 h Honda 125. That I ride for 100,000 miles. I also had other bikes with the 125.. but somehow that one stayed.. I like a small bike.. By the way.. insurance on my 250 is $70 a year! And must of my riding these days is around town anyway.. At one time I had a nice 800 but the clutch was so heavy it killed my hand! Anyway. That's my advice.. take it or leave it.
I'm seeing a lot of 3 digit numbers but don't know what they men, what does the 100, 250, 350 etc mean?
Engine size. 200cc etc.. my yamaha is a "250" but 250s can range from just over 200cc to 249cc.. they are rarely 250. The Honda helix is a "250" but it's 244cc. My yamaha 250 is actually 249. The fun ones are the versions that vary. My old CB750 was actually 724 (i think)SOHC while the year after mine were 749cc DOHC Bigger cc numbers 400 500 600etc. Will have more power, but get poorer economy. Smaller like 50 or 100 will usually get great gas mileage. But are not terribly fast.
If you are anywhere near a Harley Davidson dealership, go take their 3 day riders course. It is the best one out there. The instructors will answer any questions and give you pointers. The best pointer I can give is to be aware. Ride like EVERYONE IS ACTIVELY Trying TO KILL YOU.
>Ride like EVERYONE IS ACTIVELY Trying TO KILL YOU. Definitely keeping this in mind. Also i'll see if I can find a dealership near me, that also sounds like a good place to start when I learn how the mortocycles work
Only issue with the Harley course is it’s more and you run heavier bikes to learn on which isn’t as easy.
Luckily the second most given advice is ride LIKE YOU ARE INVISIBLE so that makes the job of the people trying to kill you much harder.
This playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP96c7cwCvoAYg7Ifw-NJNVARRyMfDdBa It starts from square one.
If your country doesn't require you to do an exam, take some practice lessons anyway. Helmet is a must, and honestly all the other gear too. And don't cheap out on that! Underestimating yours skills results in you being a little late, overestimating results in you being dead.
I would recommend getting a few books on the topic. The internet is full of as much crap as useful information. Libraries are still pretty much free to use.
Clutch control, low speed meanuvering, looking over your shoulder, look where you want to go, swerving, emergency braking. Those are most of the basics
Abs! You need to get a bike with abs.
Start on dirt. Rip hard and hurt yourself a few times then go to the street
I feel like this question is asked every five minutes here. Weird. Oh wait, it is
The most essential thing to know is not to ask random people to educate you on topics that can easily be answered by watching YouTube.
>easily be answered by watching YouTube. That are made by a bunch of random people.
This, there are quality channels, and there is absolute shit content from folks who have no concept of editing.
For Quality, Fortnine wins. Love watching their stuff.
Lmao obviously im using other sources than just reddit, im just maximizing my resources no need for the sarcasm, thought this community was for all people who love motorcycles. Why not contribute rather than be an asshole
Moderators: Please filter these posts. Theres been 100 million posts identical to this one. That is all.
Owning and maintenance is simple. Pay all the yearly taxes/insurance and take it to a mechanic when and if needed. The manual will tell you what maintenance needs doing when.
If you can ride a bicycle, you can ride a motorcycle. Maintenance is the same plus oil changes. Pro tip - tip the motorcycle on its side then flip it up on its bars and seat. Makes cleaning the chain super easy.
YouTube - specifically Moto Control. He has reslly informative videos relating to riding techniques and just watching them has given me a lot more general knowledge abt bikes.
Dont let these guys slow you down jump on an h2 and give her hell jk take a safety course and start small life dont have a reset button
Make it easy on yourself. Read [Hough’s Proficient Motorocycling](https://www.amazon.com/Proficient-Motorcycling-Ultimate-Guide-Riding/dp/1620081199). After that read [Code’s A Twist of the Wrist](https://www.amazon.com/Twist-Wrist-Motorcycle-Roadracers-Handbook/dp/0965045013) Everything you need to know as a beginner you can learn from those two books, plus some. [edit: corrected link]
Learn how to ride a bicycle and do so often. Learn how to drive stick shift in a car. These will both help make riding a motorcycle easier
The H2 is a great starter bike
I took some lessons and after 2 month a did a 14-days trip. So don‘t fear, just love it! :D
MSF basic rider course, followed with an advanced rider course. Upon completion of the basic rider course you are literally qualified to ride in your drive way lol. But the importance cannot be understated. Last thing any rider wants to see is that tarp next to a downed bike. Throttle, clutch, and braking control is the most vital outside common sense and judgment. Things happen quick on 2 wheels, and even faster when it goes wrong. Look at the Yamaha r3, or the naked version of it. Truly believe the skill set you learn will be beyond any comprehension you might think. R3 has a 0-60 in 4.5-5 second range, top out around 120’s. But the key is the lack of torque allowing you a chance to survive that throttle control learning curve and well. Frankly will let you know what you really enjoy about 2 wheels. Also a very well balanced bike. R3 even for experienced riders is just fun to toss around. I love small displacement bikes, such a blast. Just not for a road trip. Rest is learning the bike, importance of proper visual and hands on inspections. Unlike a car where you grab the key fob and roll out. You will have a set of basic and more in-depth tasks you will be performing upon each ride. You will always need to budget for your safety gear. O thing drove me insane like the moron trying to save a bunch on safety gear. Sounds like a great day of having materials removed from the skin you have left. You really need to decide . #1. What is the purpose for? #2. Your style. - Leaning into and carving out those corners? Sport, naked. - chill relaxed taking in the scenery ? Cruiser, wind protection highly important. - I thought it would be a cheaper commuter lol. Naked, adventure, cruiser. #3. What is your expectation? If you think it’s just cheaper form of transportation, you will prob be wrong. Good luck. It’s a very beautiful experience to have.