How to learn to ride a motorcycle for beginners

Are you a beginner looking for a safe and proper way to learn to ride a motorcycle? Riding a motorcycle can be exhilarating and exciting, but it also carries risks if you're not properly instructed. This article will help you understand how to start learning to ride a motorcycle , from acquiring basic knowledge to choosing the right course and ensuring safety on the road.

Motorcycle driving guide for beginners

1. Start the car.

• Start the motorcycle engine using the starter button or kick starter (depending on the model).

2. Engage gear 1 to start running.

• Press the gear lever down to engage first gear.

• Release the clutch lever (with your left hand) slowly and gently.

3. Combining throttle and clutch

• When releasing the clutch, simultaneously gently twist the throttle (with your right hand).

• The vehicle will start moving – at this point, lift your feet and place them on the footrest.

4. Increase or decrease speed

• When significant acceleration or deceleration is required, shift to the appropriate gear.

• Shift gears by squeezing the clutch and then pushing the gear lever up or down.

5. Safe turning techniques

• To turn in a particular direction, gently push the handlebars down in that direction.

• Keep a firm grip on the handlebars and maintain your balance.

6. Park your car properly.

• When you want to stop, slowly squeeze the front brake (with your right hand).

• Then, gently press the rear brake pedal (with your right foot).

• Avoid braking suddenly to prevent skidding and falling.

Part 1: Essential motorcycle gear for beginners: From helmets to gloves

Step 1: Choose the right helmet when riding a motorcycle.

A helmet is the most important piece of equipment when riding a motorcycle. It protects your head from injury in the event of an accident. To be effective, the helmet must fit properly and not restrict your vision.

Prioritize helmets that meet safety standards.

Choose a helmet specifically designed for motorcyclists and that meets safety standards. Two common and reputable standards are:

• DOT (U.S. Department of Transportation)

• ECE (European Economic Commission)

Both are rigorously tested. Some people even choose Snell- certified helmets because of the stricter requirements and better protection in high-speed situations or on complex impact surfaces.

You don't need to buy the most expensive helmet; just make sure it meets safety standards to adequately protect your head in the event of a collision.

How to measure and choose helmet size

For a helmet to be effective, you need to choose the right size. This can be done as follows:

• Using a soft measuring tape, measure around your head, about 1.3 cm above your eyebrows.

• Compare the measurements to the size chart of the brand you intend to buy.

• Note: Each brand has a different sizing system.

It's best to go to a store specializing in motorcycle protective gear to get advice and try things on in person.

How to properly test a helmet

A proper hat will:

• There's a piece of glass shield right above the eyebrow.

• It fits perfectly, not loosely.

• There's only enough room to slip one finger between my head and the hat.

If you feel uncomfortable even after choosing the correct size, you should try a different helmet style that fits your head shape better. For optimal protection, choose a full-face helmet or a modular helmet.

Important warning

Riding a motorbike without a helmet can result in a fine, and more importantly, increases the risk of serious injury.

Step 2: Choose a suitable protective jacket when riding a motorcycle.

Motorcycle jackets are more than just a fashion item. They help protect the upper body, especially internal organs, in the event of an accident.

Prioritize specialized materials that meet CE standards.

Protective jackets are typically made from:

• Genuine leather specifically designed for motorcycles.

• Composite materials such as Kevlar

Choose a jacket with protective padding in key areas and CE (European) certification to ensure it meets safety standards.

Note: Regular fashion leather jackets do not offer the same level of protection as specialized motorcycle jackets.

How to choose a well-fitting jacket

The jacket should fit snugly around the torso but not restrict arm movement. When trying on a jacket, keep the following in mind:

• Move around comfortably while sitting in the driving position.

• Not too tight, not too loose.

• The protective armor is positioned correctly over the shoulders, elbows, and back.

Choose a jacket according to the weather.

Depending on the weather conditions, you should choose the appropriate type of jacket:

• Hot weather: Choose shirts with plenty of ventilation holes, vents, or zippers to regulate airflow.

• Cold or rainy weather: Choose a waterproof jacket that keeps you warm and has a windproof lining.

A well-fitting jacket helps you stay comfortable, maintain focus while driving, and increase safety on every journey.

The jacket also helps protect against environmental impacts.

Besides collisions, jackets also help you avoid:

• Strong winds when driving at high speed.

• Intense sunlight, UV rays

• Low temperatures and rain

A pleasant driving experience helps you stay more alert and enjoy your journey better.

Step 3: Get fully equipped: Shoes, gloves, and protective trousers.

Protective shoes, gloves, and protective pants are essential equipment when riding a motorcycle. They help increase safety and provide comfort throughout the journey.

Choose the right safety shoes.

Safety shoes protect the feet and ankles from injury. When choosing shoes, prioritize the following features:

• Cover the ankles completely.

• Non-slip sole, with a metal core at the toe.

• Stiff and difficult to twist when trying to bend the toe and heel of the shoe by hand.

The more difficult a shoe is to twist, the better protection it offers in the event of a collision or accident.

Gloves protect and keep your hands warm.

Gloves protect against impacts from wind, insects, and road debris. They also keep you warm and improve grip while driving. Choose gloves with:

• High flexibility, easy finger movement.

• The strap is secured around the wrist to keep the gloves from slipping off in case of a fall.

• Strong materials like Kevlar are used to increase durability and absorb impact.

Protective pants: Protect the lower body.

Many people often overlook protective pants, but they are very important. Regular jeans offer no protection in a crash because they tear easily.

Please choose pants made from:

• Special leather or Kevlar fabric, similar to jackets.

• It has protective armor at the knees and hips.

These pants are designed to withstand pulling and abrasion in the event of an accident.

Things to note when choosing equipment

Protective gear isn't just for complying with regulations; it's a living shield protecting you from serious injury. Each item has its own role and should be invested in appropriately.

Part 2: Learning to ride a motorcycle on your own: Steps to get acquainted safely and effectively.

Step 1: Attend a motorcycle safety course.

A safety course is the best starting point for beginners. You will be taught proper driving skills and how to handle dangerous situations on the road.

This course will help you drive more safely.

Participating in the course offers many benefits:

• Learn safe and effective driving techniques.

• Improve reflexes in dangerous situations.

• Helps build confidence when driving in real-world situations.

It may be a requirement to take the driving test.

Depending on where you live, the course may include:

• Required conditions for obtaining a motorcycle license.

• Participation is encouraged but not mandatory.

Please check the regulations at your local transportation department or driver's license issuing authority for details.

This course is for beginners.

If you have no experience or are just starting out, look for basic rider courses . These courses usually include:

• Theory in the classroom

• Practice on the training ground

• Final exam to receive certification or driver's license.

No private vehicle is required to participate.

Many courses provide motorcycles for practice , which is ideal for those who don't own one. You just need to register and bring the necessary documents.

Where to find courses

• Check with your local transportation department.

• Find private motorcycle training centers.

• Many centers offer weekend courses, suitable for busy people.

Step 2: Familiarize yourself with the basic controls on a motorcycle.

Before you start driving, you need to understand how to use the controls. Unfamiliarity with the controls can lead to slow reactions, creating a dangerous situation while driving.

Clutch lever – clutch control

• Position: Left hand on the handlebars

• Function: Disconnects the engine from the rear wheels when you need to shift gears.

• Instructions: Pull the clutch lever in before shifting gears.

Need to shift gears – change the car's gears

• Position: Left foot

• Instructions: Press the pedal up or down to increase/decrease gears after engaging the clutch.

• Remember: Some cars use a numbering system like 1 – N – 2 – 3 – 4 – 5

Throttle – acceleration

• Position: Right hand on the handlebars

• Instructions: Gently turn the knob towards you to increase speed.

• Note: The throttle should be adjusted gradually to avoid jerking the vehicle.

Parking brake – front wheel brake

• Position: Right hand on the handlebars

• Instructions: Gently squeeze to reduce the speed of the front wheel.

• Remember: The front brake is very strong, so apply it slowly to avoid skidding.

Foot brake – rear wheel brake

• Position: Right foot

• Instructions: Press down to apply the rear brake.

• Note: Use in combination with the handbrake for more effective braking.

Principles of quick memorization

• Left : Clutch and gear control

• Right side : Acceleration and braking control

Step 3: How to properly get on a motorbike

Getting on a motorbike correctly helps you maintain better control and avoid losing balance.

• Stand to the left of the vehicle.

• Hold the left-hand drive

• Swing your right leg over the seat.

• Place both feet firmly on the ground.

Get used to the feeling of sitting in the car.

Before starting, sit on the bike to check your posture and riding position:

• Grasp the handlebars , clutch , and front brake.

• Check that the switches and controls are within easy reach.

• The arm should have a slight bend at the elbow , not be completely straight.

Check foot position and fit.

• You should be able to easily touch both feet to the ground.

• Feel the weight of the car beneath you.

• Try operating the gear shift with your left foot without removing your footrest.

Why is this step important?

Sitting in the correct posture when getting into a car helps you:

• More confidence and better control when driving.

• Avoid falling when the vehicle is stationary.

• Get into the correct posture before starting the operation.

Step 4: Familiarize yourself with the clutch lever and how to operate it.

The clutch lever is the part that allows you to shift gears smoothly. When you squeeze the clutch, the engine is disconnected from the gearbox, allowing you to shift gears or keep the vehicle in neutral.

The clutch lever is not an on/off switch.

Imagine the clutch lever as a light dimmer , not an on/off switch. Squeezing and releasing the clutch should be smooth and consistent , avoiding quick release which can cause the engine to stall or the vehicle to jerk violently .

How to engage first gear and start the car

1. Squeeze the left clutch lever.

2. Use your left foot to press down on the gear lever to engage first gear (you may need to press it several times).

3. You'll know you've shifted into first gear when you no longer feel any bouncing or the sensation of shifting further.

4. Prepare to release the clutch slowly so the car can start moving.

Understanding the gear shifting model

Most motorcycles use a "1 down, 5 up" gear shifting scheme:

• 1 → Neutral (N) → 2 → 3 → 4 → 5

• Neutral is between 1 and 2.

• The current number will be displayed on the instrument panel.

How to shift gears while the car is moving.

1. Squeeze the clutch lever to the left to disengage the engine from the rear wheel.

2. Gently reduce the throttle with your right hand to avoid the vehicle jerking.

3. Use your left foot to push the gear lever up (or down if downshifting).

4. Release the clutch slowly while slightly increasing the throttle to allow the car to shift gears smoothly.

5. Continue to maintain a steady pace.

Notes for training

• Practice repeatedly at slow speeds to get used to the feel of engaging and releasing the clutch.

• Practice on an open, flat road to avoid losing control.

• Do not shift gears while the vehicle is stationary (except when engaging first gear to start driving).

Step 5: How to start a motorcycle correctly

Starting your car correctly ensures safety and helps the engine run smoothly. Here are the basic steps:

Check the engine kill switch.

• Locate the red kill switch on the right handlebar.

• Flip the switch to the “On” position.

• This switch helps to shut off the engine in an emergency when needed.

Insert the key and turn on the engine.

• Insert the key into the ignition.

• Turn it to the "Ignition" position.

• Check that the lights, speedometer, and display are working properly.

Shift the car to neutral (N).

• Press the gear lever all the way down to engage first gear.

• Then gently push up once to engage neutral (N) gear.

• When the correct gear (N) is engaged, the "N" indicator light on the dashboard will illuminate.

Start the engine.

• Use your right thumb to press the "Start" button, usually located below the red kill switch.

• This button usually has a circular arrow and lightning bolt icon.

• Keep the clutch engaged throughout the engine starting process.

Start the engine using the kick starter (if it's an older model).

• If the car doesn't have an electric starter button, you'll need to use the kick starter.

• This lever is usually located behind the right footrest.

• Press this lever firmly with your foot to start it.

Wait for the engine to warm up.

• After the engine starts successfully, wait for about 30–45 seconds.

• This stage helps the lubricating oil spread evenly throughout the engine, resulting in smoother vehicle operation.

Practice your feel for the clutch.

• Sit firmly, with both feet touching the ground.

• Squeeze and release the clutch slowly , without accelerating.

• Repeat this several times to become familiar with the taper point.

Additional notes

Some motorcycles have both an electric starter and a mechanical kick starter . The kick starter is usually used when the electrical system malfunctions or the battery is weak .

Step 6: Practice maintaining balance with the "power walking" technique.

The "power walking" technique is a simple yet highly effective exercise that helps you get used to the feel of controlling the vehicle and maintaining balance before actually driving.

Starting from a stationary position

• Sit on the bike, with both feet on the ground , and hold on steady.

• Squeeze the clutch , shift into first gear , no need to twist the throttle.

Release the clutch slowly to allow the car to roll forward on its own.

• Release the clutch slowly until the vehicle begins to move slightly.

• At this point, the car will propel itself forward even without you accelerating.

Walk alongside the bike to maintain balance.

• Keep your feet on the ground and step lightly alongside the vehicle.

• Use your hands to adjust the handlebars and clutch to control speed.

• Do not accelerate or brake during this process.

Practice until you feel a sense of balance.

• Practice walking forward, stopping, and maintaining balance continuously.

• Once you get used to it, try lifting your leg up on the footrest for a few seconds.

• The goal is to be able to keep the bike upright without having to put your feet down.

Why should you practice "power walking"?

• Helps you get familiar with the clutch engagement point.

• Practice maintaining balance while the vehicle is moving slowly.

• Increase your confidence and control before actually accelerating.

Part 3: Riding a motorcycle for the first time: How to ride straight, turn, and brake correctly.

Step 1: Start riding the motorbike

After starting the machine and letting it warm up, you can begin moving it.

Check the kickstand.

• Make sure the kickstand is fully folded up before riding.

Put it in gear 1 and start moving.

• Squeeze the clutch lever and shift to first gear.

• Slowly release the clutch while gently twisting the throttle to start the vehicle moving.

• Adjust the throttle to prevent the engine from stalling when releasing the clutch.

Speed ​​up and put your foot down.

• Once the car has started moving, gently increase the throttle.

• Lift your feet and place them on the footrests to maintain proper posture while driving.

Practice running straight.

• Maintain balance and stay straight on the road by releasing the clutch and gradually increasing the throttle.

• Focus on keeping the steering wheel stable; avoid making sudden steering maneuvers.

Park safely

• To stop, fully depress the clutch.

• Use both the front and rear brakes gently to slow down.

• Use your left foot to support the bike when it comes to a complete stop.

• Place your right foot on the ground to maintain balance.

Important note

• The clutch and throttle must be operated in a coordinated manner to avoid stalling or jerking.

• Practice many times to get a feel for the clutch engagement point and better control the vehicle.

Step 2: Get used to shifting gears.

Once you can drive straight, you need to practice feeling and shifting gears smoothly.

Understanding the friction zone

• The friction zone is the area where the clutch lever begins to transmit power from the engine to the rear wheel.

• This is crucial for the car to move smoothly without jerking or stalling.

• Practice to accurately feel this area when releasing the clutch.

Sequential gear shifting mechanism

• Motorcycles use a sequential gearbox, meaning gears must be shifted in order: 1 → N → 2 → 3 → ...

• You can't ignore the number when crossing.

Instructions for shifting from 1st to 2nd gear.

1. When shifting into first gear, you hear a "click" sound and feel that the gear lever can no longer be pressed down.

2. Release the clutch slowly to allow the car to start rolling.

3. To increase speed, gently twist the throttle while releasing the clutch.

4. To shift to second gear, squeeze the clutch , reduce throttle, and pull the gear lever up past the neutral position.

5. Check that the neutral indicator light is off.

6. Release the clutch slowly and then accelerate to continue driving.

7. Shifting to higher gears is done in a similar way, just with a lighter pull of the gear lever because it's no longer in neutral.

Instructions for downshifting

• Reduce speed, apply the brakes gently.

• Squeeze the clutch and push the gear lever down to downshift.

• Release the clutch slowly to allow the vehicle to run smoothly.

• You can stop the car while still in second gear, then downshift to first gear once the car has come to a complete stop.

Tips for practicing shifting gears

• Practice repeatedly to get a feel for the engine sound when shifting gears (high RPM signals a gear change).

• Smooth gear shifting contributes to more durable and safer vehicle operation.

Step 3: Practice motorcycle cornering techniques.

Safe driving while cornering is an important skill that needs practice.

Understanding countersteering techniques

• When driving at speeds of 16 km/h (10 mph) or higher, to turn you need to push the steering wheel in the opposite direction of the turn.

• For example, to turn left, push the right steering wheel down.

• The car will tilt in the direction you want to turn.

Prepare before eating crab.

• Reduce speed before entering the curve.

• Do not apply the brakes while cornering; if you need to brake, do so before you begin the turn.

• Release the throttle to keep the car stable.

Posture and gaze when turning

• Raise your head and look towards the end of the bend.

• Never look down at the road or inside the curve.

• Keep your eyes focused on the exit point of the curve so the car can follow that direction.

Safe cornering maneuvers

• If you turn the steering wheel in the opposite direction of the turn, the car will lean.

• When cornering, lean your body with the bike while gently increasing the throttle to maintain momentum.

• When exiting a corner, maintain a steady or slightly increased throttle, while gradually straightening the handlebars to bring the vehicle to a complete stop.

• Avoid jerking the steering wheel sharply to prevent losing control.

Important note

• Practice this technique several times in a safe area to get familiar with it.

• Proper cornering technique helps you drive safely and handle situations on the road effectively.

Step 4: Practice slowing down and stopping safely.

After mastering starting, shifting gears, and cornering, you need to know how to decelerate and stop the vehicle properly.

Understanding the braking system

• Front brake: The right brake lever controls the front wheel brake.

• Rear brake: The right foot brake controls the rear wheel brake.

• You should start braking with the front brake , then use the rear brake to assist.

Effective ways to slow down and stop a vehicle.

1. Start by gently squeezing the front brake lever to reduce speed.

2. Once the vehicle has slowed down, use the rear brake to assist in stopping.

3. At the same time, engage the clutch and downshift to the appropriate gear (you can down to 2nd or 1st depending on the speed).

4. Avoid accelerating while braking.

5. Gradually increase brake pressure, avoiding sudden braking to prevent the vehicle from jerking.

Stop the vehicle and maintain balance.

• Once the vehicle has come to a complete stop, release the front brake and put your foot on the ground.

• Place your left foot down first, then your right foot to maintain balance.

Notes when practicing braking

• Practice braking multiple times in a safe place.

• Coordinate the front and rear brakes effectively for better vehicle control.

• Stay calm and avoid sudden braking that could cause loss of control.

Author: Jason Shackelford .