How to Ride a Motorcycle? A Beginner's Guide

How to ride a motorcycle? Is it hard for me to ride a motorcycle? Most novices will have such questions when they first start or try to ride motorcycles.

Yes, riding a motorcycle can be one of the most exhilarating experiences on two wheels. To the experienced riders, you may think it is very easy to ride a motorcycle. But to rookies, it may truly be a bit daunting when they first sit on the bike.

Don't worry! This guide will walk you through the basics of how to ride a motorcycle. We will use simple language and easy-to-follow steps to describe this so that all the beginner riders can learn easily.

Introduction

Are you ready to hit the open road but unsure where to start? Learning to ride a motorcycle is a thrilling journey that combines skill, balance, and confidence. This guide will break down the process into manageable steps to help you get started safely and effectively.

Now, let's begin step by step.

Getting Started Before Riding A Motorcycle

Choose the right motorcycle

When you are just starting to learn how to ride a motorcycle, you need to choose a motorcycle that is the right size and suitable for you.

Practicing with a motorcycle that is easy to use and can be easily controlled will achieve twice the result with half the effort. It will also increase your interest in learning. In this way, you can also master the basic essentials of riding a motorcycle in a shorter time.

After all, you are just starting to ride, so don't think about conquering those big and bulky models at this time. This will only backfire.

So, how to choose a motorcycle suitable for beginners?

Most of the motorcycle brands has suitable motorcycle for beginners. Honda, Harley-Davidson, Suzuki, Kawasaki, whatever you choose. There are many reviews and videos talking about the best motorcycle for beginners. Read about it, and compare between them.

I also introduced two motorcycles about the Best Harley-Davidson Motorcycle for Beginners. You can read about it if interested in.

Here are a few points that beginners need to pay attention to when choosing a motorcycle:

• 01. Motorcycle Body Height. Choose a motorcycle with a lower body height to ensure that when you sit on the motorcycle. Make sure your feet can be put down and touch the ground smoothly. This makes it easier for you to support the motorcycle.
• 02. Easy to Control. Novices should choose a light motorcycle that is easy to control. These lighter motorcycles are easier to control, so that you can more easily control the direction and balance when practicing driving.
• 03. Suitable Motorcycle Type. Choose a motorcycle according to your future riding needs. If you only ride on city roads, then a small-displacement, standard motorcycle or scooter is enough. If you plan to ride on both pavement and off-road trails in the future, then you can choose off-road and sport bikes.

I have been riding motorcycles for 6 years and have ridden almost 150,000 kilometers so far. In my opinion, the most important thing for new riders is to choose a motorcycle that you like and that suits you. Because when you ride on the road, all kinds of things can happen. If you don’t choose the right motorcycle at the beginning, then your entire ride will not be a good experience.

Essential Gear

OK, you've chosen your motorbike. Now there are other things you need to prepare.

The right riding gear is also something you need to prepare. I've talked to many professional riders and asked them about the equipment they recommend for new riders. In summary, the following are the equipment you should and must prepare:

• Helmet: Make sure the helmet meets the regulations of the Ministry of Transportation. For example, a DOT-approved helmet is always a good option. Besides, for beginner riders, I sincerely advise you to choose a helmet with more coverage. You will need full face coverage to protect you in case you fall from the motorcycle. (Further read: The Best Beginner Motorcycle Helmet)
• Eye protection: Some helmets come with goggles, so you don't need to buy them separately. It protects your eyes. It also prevents strong light from affecting your driving vision. If there is no goggles on the helmet, wear them. Don't underestimate them, they are really useful.
• Full-finger gloves: Motorcycle-specific gloves are recommended for new riders. They can provide extra protection for your knuckles and palms. Motorcycle gloves not only improve handling comfort but also reduce the damage caused by accidents. Besides, they can reduce the pressure on the hands by absorbing impact, making riding more comfortable.
• Riding jacket and pants: It is also necessary to choose a jacket that fits well. Motorcycle-specific jackets often protect vulnerable areas such as shoulders, elbows and backs. Motorcycle-specific pants can provide extra protection for your knees. Common motorcycle jackets and special pants are usually made of wear-resistant materials.
• Over-the-ankle boots or shoes: Boots and shoes are essential gear for protecting your feet. Professional cycling shoes have better wrapping around the ankle than ordinary shoes. This prevents the ankle from being injured again due to a fall. Good cycling shoes can also make the ankle more comfortable and provide better protection for the feet. If you ride in the summer or when the temperature is high, choose cycling shoes with good ventilation. They can keep you cooler and more comfortable while riding.

Related Reading: Top 5 Best Motorcycle Gear For Beginners (The Ultimate Guide For you)

Learn How To Ride A Motorcycle - Basic Steps

how to ride a motorcycle step by step (Author: Best Beginner Motorcycles)

Once you have   The followings are the main steps about how to ride a motorcycle.

1. Mounting the Motorcycle

• Step Over: Stand on the left side of the motorcycle. Hold the handlebars and swing your right leg over the seat.
• Sit Comfortably: Sit upright with both feet flat on the ground. Ensure you can reach all the controls comfortably.

2. Starting the Motorcycle

• Turn the Key: Insert the key and turn it to the "on" position.
• Check the Kill Switch: Make sure the kill switch is in the "run" position.
• Press the Starter Button: With the clutch pulled in, press the starter button to start the engine.

3. Getting Moving

• Engage the Clutch: Pull the clutch lever in with your left hand.
• Shift to First Gear: Use your left foot to push the gear shifter down into first gear.
• Throttle and Release the Clutch: Slowly twist the throttle while gradually releasing the clutch. The motorcycle will start to move forward.

4. Shifting Gears

• Increase Speed: As you gain speed, you’ll need to shift to higher gears.
• Pull in the Clutch: When you’re ready to shift, pull in the clutch.
• Shift Up: Use your left foot to lift the gear shifter up to the next gear.
• Release the Clutch: Gradually release the clutch while giving the throttle a slight twist.

5. Stopping the Motorcycle

• Throttle Down: Gradually close the throttle to slow down.
• Brake Smoothly: Use both the front and rear brakes to come to a stop.
• Downshift: As you slow down, downshift to lower gears.
• Clutch In: Pull in the clutch as you come to a complete stop.
• Neutral: Shift to neutral if you’re going to be stopped for a while.

Pure text may not help you better understand how to ride a motorcycle. I recommend you watch this video, which will help you understand the main steps of riding a motorcycle visually.

Tips for Beginner Motorcycle Riders

Take a motorcycle safety course.

Riding a motorcycle is not like riding a bicycle. It is more complicated, faster, and harder to control than a bicycle.

If you have no previous experience riding a motorcycle, be sure to take a motorcycle safety course. This is not only responsible for your future safety, but also for other road users.

A motorcycle driving course will teach you some correct riding skills and safety knowledge. Usually the course will include classroom knowledge and practical riding courses on the road.

motorcycle riding course

Some courses are suitable for new riders with little or no experience. They usually teach some basic rider courses. For beginners, it is enough.

You can go to the motor vehicle and traffic department of your local government to find out if there are courses in your area.

Moreover, these courses are provided with motorcycles and are usually suitable for beginners, so you can learn smoothly.

When you have completed the classroom learning and practical road practice, when the time is right, you can go to take the test and get your driver's license.

Practice Makes Perfect

Find a safe, open area to practice how to ride the motorcycle. Parking lots are great for beginners. They have a large space for you to ride and will not cause much damage if there is an accident. Also, you can choose those roads with less traffic to practice.

Too many participants on the road may make you more nervous. In places with less traffic, your mind will be calmer and you will be able to master riding skills faster.

You can Practice starting, stopping, and turning until you feel comfortable.

Balance and Control

• Focus on Where You Want to Go: Your motorcycle will follow your eyes. Look through turns and keep your head up. Many motorcycle accidents are caused by distraction or not paying attention to traffic conditions on the road. Remember to follow the motorcycle riding safety standards.
• Smooth Movements: When riding a motorcycle, be smooth to handle with the throttle, clutch, and brakes. It is not easy for beginners to control them well, but practice makes perfect. Slowly and patiently do more practice, and you will get the hang of it. Most importantly, do not do jerky movements, because it can lead to loss of control.

Safety First

• Stay you and your motorcycle Visible: Wear bright clothing and always use signal lights. Conspicuous clothing allows other road users to notice you more quickly and keep a safe distance. Signal lights can inform surrounding vehicles of your next driving choice, which can avoid many unnecessary accidents.
• Drive Carefully: At the same time, you also need to pay attention to the driving environment around you, including vehicles in the same direction, oncoming direction, and from other directions at the intersection. Always pay attention to other drivers and assume that they don't see you.
• Check your bike: Check your motorcycle regularly for any maintenance issues. Novices may not be particularly familiar with the parts and performance of motorcycles, but you can do some basic daily maintenance and motorcycle clean works. But it may need some essential maintenance tools when you maintain it. Of course, you can also send your motorcycle to a professional motorcycle maintenance agency and let them help you maintain it.

Frequesntly Asked Questions

1. How hard is it to ride a motorcycle for the first time?

Riding a motorcycle for the first time can be challenging for many beginners. But you still can manage it if there is proper guidance.

The most important things are balancing the bike, coordinating the clutch and throttle, and shifting gears. But you know that it is not easy to learn it for the first time.

You will get nervous when you are learning how to ride a motorcycle for the first time, it is normal. Please be patient and find a safe environment to practice, most beginners can get the hang of it quickly.

Also, you can take a basic rider course, with a teacher guiding you, and you can boost your confidence and safety.

Remember, everyone starts as a beginner, so don’t be discouraged by initial difficulties.

2. How do you move a motorcycle for beginners?

Beginners may not be familiar with how to move the motorcycle. Here are the main steps to move a motorcycle:

1. Mount the Bike: Sit comfortably with both feet on the ground.
2. Start the Engine: Turn the key, ensure the kill switch is on, and press the starter.
3. Engage the Clutch: Pull the clutch lever in with your left hand.
4. Shift to First Gear: Use your left foot to press down on the gear shifter.
5. Throttle and Release: Slowly twist the throttle while gently releasing the clutch.
6. Balance and Move: As the bike starts to move, balance and steer gently.

3. What is the hardest thing to learn for beginners on riding a motorcycle?

For beginners, the most difficult thing to learn when riding a motorcycle is to coordinate the clutch and the throttle.

Because the coordination of these two will directly affect the stability of the motorcycle when starting and stopping. Especially when driving at low speed, you need to control the balance of the body while mastering the clutch and the throttle.

In addition, how to smoothly shift gears and reverse steering when turning also requires a long time of training.

For most motorcycle novices, this is indeed difficult. However, please don't be discouraged, keep a calm mind, and practice patiently a few more times.

Slowly experience the feeling it brings you when you operate the motorcycle. When you feel that the sound of the car is very stable, remember the strength, direction and steps you just operated. You will be able to master these soon.

Or, you can also take a motorcycle safety course. The instructor will also teach you some tips to help you master these basic skills better.

Conclusion

Learning to ride a motorcycle is a rewarding experience that brings freedom and adventure. For beginners, be sure to follow these basic steps and practice regularly. The more you practice, the more you will develop the skills and confidence you need to ride safely.

The most important advice I can give you as a beginner is always to ride safely and practice more. Remember that safety is of the utmost importance, so always wear your gear and ride responsibly.

Rodney L Herron

Rodney L is a technical writer and product consultant with over a decade of experience in the motor industry. Rodney is a fan of performance machines that run fast and loud and an expert in all things custom. His numerous articles and write-ups are available at our knowledge base. Whether it’s something wrong with your motorcycle or you are building a custom bike, you can trust Rodney’s experience.