Ever see a rider make a rookie mistake? There's nothing more amusing (or sad) than watching someone, decked out in all the latest gear with a brand-new bike, pop the clutch and stall at a light; at the same time, there's nothing quite as unnerving as seeing the same rider pass a semi on the right at 75 mph. Some newbie mistakes are comical, while others are downright dangerous. Here are 10 tips we think new riders should know, as compiled by the RoadBike staff:
1. Don't Dump And Run
When getting used to your first bike, it's a good idea to get into the habit of squeezing and easing the clutch lever. If the neutral indicator light is lit, all that means is that the light bulb has power. Ease the clutch out gently; if you feel the motorcycle start to creep into the friction zone, you know you're in gear.
2. Read Up
Read your owner's manual. It may not be a literary work of art (like the stories you read here in the pages of RoadBike), but you can be sure to learn a thing or two you didn't know about your bike. How much gas can your tank hold? Where's the fuse panel? And how do you get the darn seat off? These and many other questions will be answered.
3. Oooooohhhhmmmmm
Relax. There's nothing worse than tensing up your hands, arms, and shoulders when you ride. It leads to fatigue and takes away from the enjoyment of riding. Before you pull away from the curb, take a moment to stretch your muscles and clear your mind. Then, just ride.
4. Care For Your Air
The correct tire pressure leads to a more comfortable and stable ride, longer tire life, and better gas mileage. On a bike you only have two tires (and no spare), so be sure they're working at peak performance.
5. Side By Side
When approaching a stop sign while riding with another motorcyclist, pull up alongside him and then proceed through the stop sign together. This will prevent other motorists from splitting you up. (In most states this is a generally accepted motorcycle riding practice, but check with your local authorities first.)
6. The Slick Stuff
How do you check your oil? Some motorcycles use a dipstick, which screws or pops into the engine case cover or remote oil tank. Other manufacturers let you peek into the inner sanctum of the engine through a sight plug window. Either way, there's no more valuable maintenance task than checking your oil, period.
7. Lights Out
Make a habit of looking over your shoulder when you walk away from your bike just to make sure there are no lights on. It's a common mistake, because the "Park" position is usually right next to the "Lock" position on the ignition switch, but be careful not to leave your motorcycle with the key switch in the "Park" position. The parking lights will stay on and run down the battery.
8. How Far Will You Go?
Always reset the trip meter when you fill the tank. This is a good habit to get into even if your bike is equipped with a fuel gauge. When you see the road sign "Next Gas Station 60 Miles," just do some mental estimations and you'll know if you can make it. For example, "This bike can go 120 miles on a tank, I've gone 80, next gas 60 miles, better not risk it, that sounds like a long walk."
9. Speak!
If there's a problem, say something. Don't ride over your head trying to keep up with more experienced riders. They'll respect you more for dropping back and riding at your own pace than if you make a mistake and eat it while trying to keep up.
10. Stand Up
Anyone can get a bike up on its centerstand, and here's how: from the left side of the bike, grab the left-hand grip with your left hand. Using your right hand, grope around the bike along the lower edge of the seat, or the frame rail, and grab a handle or a solid part with your right hand. Lower the centerstand with your right foot until you feel it hit the ground. Gently rock the bike from side to side until you feel that both feet of the centerstand are on the ground. Now comes the easy part. While steadying the bike with your left hand, step down hard on the centerstand lever while lifting straight up with your right hand and the bike will pop right up on the centerstand. It's easier than it sounds.