10 Motorcycle Mistakes you can easily AVOID!
If you’re thinking about getting a motorcycle, you’re not alone. Riding a motorcycle is a great way to save on gas and have some fun while doing it. But if you’ve never ridden before, it can be a little daunting. Here are some top tips if you’re new to riding.
Riding a motorcycle requires developing mechanical skills, like throttle control and avoiding stalling at stoplights. Here are 10 common beginner mistakes that make it clear you’re new to riding:
- Buying too much motorcycle
It’s easy to get carried away analyzing horsepower and prices, but buying a powerful leader bike as your first motorcycle is a big mistake. You won’t learn properly, you won’t have fun, and it won’t impress anyone. Start with a beginner-friendly bike that matches your skill level. - Neglecting basic motorcycle maintenance
If you’re taking your bike to the shop for every little thing, it signals you’re a newbie. Learn basic tasks like cleaning and lubing your chain, changing your oil, and adjusting your suspension. These skills will save you money and give you confidence. - Not purchasing the correct gear
You might be tempted to save money by buying cheaper gear, but proper motorcycle gear is essential for safety. Look for gear that offers abrasion resistance and impact protection. You don’t need to spend a fortune—there’s a point where price and protection stop correlating—but don’t cut corners. - Riding with stock tires
While some manufacturers are improving the quality of stock tires, beginner bikes often come with low-quality ones. Invest in good tires that suit your riding style and conditions. Your tires are your bike’s most critical contact point with the road, so don’t compromise on quality. - Stopping practice after completing the MSF Basic RiderCourse
Many beginners think they’re done learning after completing the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course. In reality, the course only covers parking lot basics. You need to practice more, especially skills like using the rear brake for stability and countersteering. - Parking nose-first
It might be tempting to park your bike nose-first like you would a car, but it’s a rookie mistake. Motorcycles don’t have reverse gears, and backing out of a space can be challenging and dangerous. Instead, back your bike into parking spaces to make leaving easier. - Not trying enough different motorcycles
Beginners often buy their first bike based on a specific image they have in mind. However, motorcycles come in many styles, and you should try different types—touring bikes, dual sports, supermotos—to get a feel for what suits you best. - Stalling the motorcycle
We’ve all been there—you’re revving your bike next to a car, ready to take off, and then you stall. It happens. But practice shifting down into first at every stop to avoid stalling, and always be mindful of the clutch and gear. - Leaving your turn signals on
New riders often forget to turn off their signals after a turn. This can confuse other drivers and create dangerous situations. Make it a habit to cancel your signal after every turn to avoid mishaps. - Overcooking it into a corner
Beginners often misjudge turns, leading to dangerous situations where they run wide or crash. This can happen when trying to keep up with other riders or due to target fixation—where you focus too much on something outside the road and accidentally ride toward it. Always ride within your limits and keep your eyes on the road.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll improve your riding experience. Start by getting the right gear, learning basic maneuvers, and practicing throttle control. Most importantly, ride at your own pace and enjoy the journey!
