So, you recently got your motorcycle license in Georgia, and you’re ready to hit the open road. Congratulations!
As you gain more experience, you’ll also gain confidence. However, it’s essential to build on a strong foundation of knowledge from day one. These six tips for beginner riders will help you ingrain safety habits early on that will serve you well as you gain experience.
Though you will probably be able to the basics of riding a motorcycle within a few hours, it can take years to become an expert rider. Be patient and keep practicing!
Tip 1: Find the Right Motorcycle
There’s no hard and fast rule about the type of bike a beginning rider should own, but if you haven’t purchased a bike yet, there are some things to keep in mind that will make riding a motorcycle easier:
– Opt for motorcycles that have less power because they’re easier to control. An ideal range is 250-600 cc.
– Consider an inexpensive or used bike. Many riders choose to upgrade their bike once they become more confident. It’s not uncommon for beginners to drop a bike or scratch it. If you have an expensive, brand-new motorcycle, that can be a tough pill to swallow.
– Test ride before you buy. Make sure the bike is comfortable and you can easily get on and off of it.
Tip 2: Get Adequate Gear
At a minimum, you’ll need the following gear:
– Helmet. Get a Department of Transportation-approved helmet. Look for the DOT sticker to ensure its’s compliant.
– Boots. Look for sturdy boots made out of sturdy material that covers your ankles.
– Gloves. Choose either leather or a durable textile thread that will protect your hands if you take a spill.
– Appropriate jacket and pants. There are special motorcycle jeans made from denim that contain Kevlar and other protective materials. Or go with classic leather.
Having the right gear protects you if you are ever involved in an accident. Taking these precautions could even save your life.
Tip 3: Take a Class
Learning how to ride on the road is a (dangerous) recipe for disaster. There are several riding classes available throughout Georgia that will help you get acquainted with your bike and become a better rider. You’ll learn better balance, maneuvering, dealing with blind spots, and more.
Tip 4: Inspect Your Bike Before Each Ride
Like an airplane pilot, you should always give your motorcycle a brief yet thorough inspection before firing up the engine. By ensuring that everything is in working order before you ride, you can reduce the risk of any unexpected mechanical failures or other malfunctions.
Here’s a list of what you should be checking:
– Tires. Make sure your tires are inflated, and you have plenty of tread.
– Lights. Test your headlight and turn signals.
– Frame. Do a 360 walkaround of your bike to ensure there are no scrapes, dings, or dents you were not aware of.
– Fluid. Check fluid levels weekly and look for signs of any leaks.
Tip 5: Mind the Weather
Even a beautiful sunny day does not guarantee safe road conditions, but inclement weather can make a ride especially dangerous for a beginner. Rain, snow, and fog decrease your visibility and maneuverability, making you a target for drivers that are also struggling against the elements.
Tip 6: Practice Makes Perfect
Once you’ve mastered the basics of riding your motorcycle, the next step is to become a confident and proficient rider. We recommend heading out to quiet roads that aren’t heavily trafficked to practice your maneuvers and connect with your bike.
As you practice riding, you’ll be able to tackle more challenging conditions, like congested freeways, areas with pedestrians, and winding roads.
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