Riding a motorcycle is exhilarating, but dangerous. Even experienced riders fall sometimes. As a novice, you need to approach riding with the proper attitude. Be physically, mentally, and emotionally prepared to get on your bike the first time, and stay safe every time you ride.
Physical Preparation
Unlike a passenger car, a motorcycle requires the bodily interaction of the rider. Strength and a sense of balance are critical. One of the biggest mistakes is to select a motorcycle that you are not ready for. Large powerful bikes take more physical effort and skill to control. A bike must fit the rider. While exercising to build up your strength and agility is a good idea, the most important aspect of physical preparation is finding a bike that is within your ability to physically control. If you aren’t sure which bike is right for you, consult a local shop like Temecula Motorsports to get advice from experts on choosing a bike to learn on. While you are at the shop, get outfitted with your riding jacket, helmet, boots, and gloves as well.
Mental Preparation
You need to study and learn as much as you can. Safe riding requires an understanding of the physics of riding and technical knowledge about motorcycles. Many beginners start by taking a riding course. These courses focus on building the fundamentals through lecture and classroom exercises. Have a firm grasp of these fundamentals memorized before you even touch the bike. It’s also a good idea to read through the owner’s manual and familiarize yourself with how the motorcycle works. Keep all of these things in your head, and be prepared to respond without thinking when you are riding. Accidents happen quickly, and there is little time to review your notes.
Emotional Preparation
Keep control of your emotions at all times. Unlike riding in a car, a motorcycle can be scary. Close calls are common for sloppy riders and getting emotional makes the situation worse. Keep your head clear and be prepared to react to emergency situations calmly. Avoid the momentary panic that may cause you to seize up at a critical point. Other drivers are often rude, inconsiderate or even oblivious to motorcycle riders, but reacting in anger only leads to disaster.
Everyone wants to have a good time while riding, but to get the most out of your first experience, make certain you are physically, mentally, and emotionally prepared before you start riding!
