At The Wiser Driver Driving School, we know that learning how to drive a motorbike is an exhilarating journey. Mastering this skill opens up a world of freedom and adventure on two wheels.
Our comprehensive guide will take you through the essential steps to become a confident and safe motorbike rider. From crucial safety gear to advanced riding techniques, we’ve got you covered.
What Safety Gear Do Motorbike Riders Need?
At The Wiser Driver Driving School, we stress the importance of proper safety gear for motorbike riders. The right equipment can protect you from injuries in case of an accident.
Helmets: Your First Line of Defense
A DOT-approved helmet is essential. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that helmets are 27 percent effective in preventing traumatic brain injury. When you select a helmet, look for the DOT sticker and ensure a snug fit. Replace your helmet every five years (or after any impact).
Protective Clothing: Your Second Skin
Leather or reinforced textile jackets and pants provide necessary abrasion resistance in case of a fall. Choose CE-rated armor in the elbows, shoulders, and knees. Some jackets include back protectors. Proper gear can save you from painful skin grafts (road rash is no laughing matter).
Gloves and Boots: Protecting Your Extremities
Your hands and feet often hit the ground first in a fall. Motorcycle-specific gloves with reinforced palms and knuckle protection are vital. For boots, opt for those that cover your ankles and have oil-resistant soles for better grip on footpegs.
Visibility: Being Seen is Being Safe
Bright colors and reflective materials on your gear increase your visibility to other road users. A study by the Queensland University of Technology found that high-visibility clothing can improve rider safety. Try adding reflective strips to your gear or wear a high-visibility vest over your jacket.
Quality safety gear might seem expensive, but it’s a small price to pay for your safety. We always recommend prioritizing safety over style when it comes to motorcycle gear.
Now that you understand the importance of proper safety gear, let’s move on to the basic motorbike controls and techniques you need to master for a safe and enjoyable ride.
How to Master Basic Motorbike Controls
At The Wiser Driver Driving School, we emphasize the importance of mastering basic motorbike controls. This foundational knowledge is key to becoming a skilled and safe rider.
Understand the Clutch, Throttle, and Brakes
The clutch, throttle, and brakes are your primary controls. The clutch (located on the left handlebar) disengages the engine from the transmission. The throttle (on the right handlebar) controls your speed. The front brake lever is on the right handlebar, while the rear brake pedal is by your right foot.
To start moving, release the clutch slowly while applying gentle throttle. This smooth coordination prevents stalling. When stopping, squeeze the front brake lever progressively while applying light pressure to the rear brake pedal. Studies have shown that integrated or unified brake systems can reduce stopping distances substantially compared with the action of the rear brake alone.
Position Your Body for Optimal Control
Proper body positioning is essential for balance and control. Sit with your back straight and shoulders relaxed. Keep your arms slightly bent and grip the handlebars firmly (but not too tightly). Rest your feet on the footpegs, ready to operate the gear shift and rear brake.
When cornering, lean your body slightly into the turn. This technique, known as countersteering, helps initiate and maintain the turn. Recent research suggests that motorcycles need to be better accommodated within a safe systems framework by better representing the vehicle itself in safety strategies.
Master Smooth Gear Shifting
Smooth gear shifting is vital for maintaining control and preventing wear on your motorcycle. To upshift, roll off the throttle, squeeze the clutch, shift up, and release the clutch smoothly while applying throttle. For downshifting, roll off the throttle, brake as needed, squeeze the clutch, shift down, and release the clutch slowly.
Practice these techniques in a safe environment (like an empty parking lot) before venturing onto busy roads. The more you practice, the more natural these movements will become.
Navigate Turns and Corners Safely
Turning and cornering require a combination of proper speed, lean angle, and visual focus. As you approach a turn, slow down to an appropriate speed. Look through the turn to where you want to go, not at the ground or obstacles. Apply gentle pressure to the inside handlebar to initiate the turn.
Maintain steady throttle through the turn to stabilize the bike. As you exit the turn, roll on the throttle gradually to accelerate smoothly. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reveals that about 40% of single-vehicle motorcycle crashes occur in curves, highlighting the importance of mastering this skill.
Now that you’ve learned the basics of motorbike control, it’s time to explore advanced riding skills and tips that will take your riding to new heights of safety and enjoyment.
How to Become an Advanced Motorbike Rider
At The Wiser Driver Driving School, we understand that advanced motorbike riding requires more than basic skills. It involves developing a keen sense for safety, adapting to various road conditions, and handling emergencies effectively. Let’s explore some advanced techniques to elevate your riding skills.
Defensive Riding: Your Safety Net
Defensive riding anticipates potential hazards before they become actual threats. Scan the road ahead and check your mirrors every 5-7 seconds. Position yourself in the lane where other drivers can see you best. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation recommends the SEE strategy: Search, Evaluate, Execute. This approach helps you identify potential hazards, decide on a course of action, and carry it out smoothly. Cover your brakes and practice emergency braking by keeping your fingers lightly resting on the brake levers so you can quickly react if you need to stop suddenly.
Conquer Challenging Road Conditions
Different road conditions demand specific riding techniques. On wet roads, reduce your speed and avoid sudden movements. When you encounter gravel, maintain a steady throttle and avoid hard braking. For night riding, increase your following distance and use your high beams when appropriate. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that 49% of motorcycle fatalities occur at night (so extra caution is necessary).
Master Group Riding
Group riding can be enjoyable but requires additional skills. Maintain a staggered formation to allow space for emergency maneuvers. Use hand signals to communicate with other riders. The lead rider should set a pace comfortable for the least experienced member of the group. Never let peer pressure override your judgment about safe riding speeds or maneuvers.
Emergency Maneuvers: Your Last Defense
Knowing how to execute emergency maneuvers can save your life. Practice quick stops, swerves, and cornering in a safe environment. The Hurt Report, a landmark study on motorcycle safety, found that most riders would overbrake and skid the rear wheel, and underbrake the front wheel, greatly reducing collision avoidance deceleration.
Continuous Skill Improvement
Advanced riding skills take time and practice to develop. Try to take advanced rider courses to refine your techniques under expert guidance. Even experienced riders continue to learn and improve their skills throughout their riding careers.
Final Thoughts
Mastering the art of riding a motorbike requires dedication, practice, and a commitment to safety. We encourage you to seek out advanced rider courses and regularly practice emergency maneuvers in a controlled environment. Joining riding communities will enhance your motorcycling experience, offering opportunities to learn from experienced riders and participate in group rides that further hone your skills.
At The Wiser Driver Driving School, we help drivers boost their confidence on the road. Our comprehensive programs include state-required courses and personalized lessons designed to create skilled and responsible drivers. While our focus is primarily on car driving, many safety principles and defensive driving techniques apply to motorcycle riding as well.
As you learn how to drive a motorbike, always prioritize safety, stay alert, and enjoy the unique freedom of two-wheeled travel. With the right mindset, proper training, and continuous improvement, you’ll become a skilled and responsible motorcyclist. The journey to master motorcycle riding starts with a single ride (and never truly ends).
