Well I'm going to be in a motorcycle class so I can get my license for it and was wondering if any of you out there have tips? Ive never ridden a motorcycle before so anything would be appreciated. 😀

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Well I have a tip...but it's more for when you actually* have* the licence - wear leather.

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Everyday I'm tumblin'

Do you want advice for the class or advice for riding in general?

I can only help with the latter because classes are conducted in different manners in different parts of the world.

Anyways....

1. Never take anything for granted.
   This applies to driving a car as well, but is probably more important for riding a bike. Never take a green light for granted. There may be an idiot prick in a SUV that's too busy arguing with his girlfriend to notice that the traffic light is glowing red on his end.

2. Ride aggressive (but not too much)
   In most situations, being too defensive/cautious will work against you on the road and you'll get swamped. What I'm basically saying is that you should always let other vehicles know that you're there.

3. Safe distance.
   The class will teach you to maintain a safe distance from the vehicles in front and behind you... I say you double the distance they indicate.

4. Blind-Spots.
   Again, this is something the class will teach you, but take extra care with this one. Most cage drivers have never even ridden a bike, so don't expect them to move their head around looking for motorcycles when they're about to change lanes or make a turn. Always make sure you're visible to drivers in their mirrors.

5. Do some motocross if you can.
   Studies (and my own experiences) have shown that doing motocross/dirt-riding goes a long way in helping you understand how a bike handles/reacts to different grip situations. It will definitely make you a better street rider.

6. Your bike is your spouse
   Always make sure your bike is in proper working order. Perform regular checks on the chain, mountings, bushings and always check tyres for wear. Rubber helps prevent unwanted events, both in life and road-life.

7. You are NOT Valentino Rossi.
   Like it or not, we're not biking demigods. Don't speed. Don't try to get your knee down at roundabouts. Don't try to be a demon on the brakes. Don't start out on a supersport bike. Don't think you'll beat a 911-Turbo at the Nurburgring on your first visit (although this will eventually happen). Don't try to beat fat ugly bankers and their Lamborghinis at the traffic lights on your first night out.
   Don't be stupid.

8. ALWAYS wear a helmet and proper riding gear. Even if you're just pootling down to the nearby store for a snack, at least make sure you have the helmet and gloves on.

I can't really explain basic riding fundamentals through words. That you'll have to gain yourself or through your instructors at the class.

Point & Squirt

I was asking for riding advice in general, thanks for the tips! I had a question about the difference in leather and textile jacket, which one offers better protection?

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Quote from Scyfon

Well I have a tip...but it's more for when you actually* have* the licence - wear leather.

wear leather even if ya dont have the lisence 😛

Never break during a turn and if the bike starts to tip, don't try and stop it with your leg and arm. That's how people coughmymomcough end up needing surgery to set collarbones. Never driven a motorcycle myself (since the rulesetter messed up so much) but I really want to.
Always wear a helmet and leather is much better than anything else if you get in an accident. If it's too hot for leather, at least wear jeans and long-sleeves to protect from road-rash. Never hit a deer. Basic safety stuff...

I am a breath of insanity in a world of chaos.

Me: Performing Random Acts of Klutziness for over 30 years.

Quote from Grimslice

I was asking for riding advice in general, thanks for the tips! I had a question about the difference in leather and textile jacket, which one offers better protection?

Leather + Kevlar/Carbon suits generally give the best protection, but many textile types are pretty solid as well. Try not to skimp when buying your gear.... I'm not saying you should go for top of the line, but do make sure that it's at least a trusted brand... I checked your info and noticed you live in the U.S.... I think there's this brand of motorcycle gear called Icon that's been reviewed positively by your local motorcycle magazines... priced quite reasonably as well

The type of bike you ride will also somewhat dictate the type of gear you wear... for example: wearing a full 1-piece suite while riding a cruiser is uncomfortable and makes you look dumb.

One last thing regarding riding that I forgot to mention earlier. IT'S NOT ONLY THE ARMS THAT DO THE WORK.
Always keep your arms relaxed and never apply too much pressure on the handlebars... controlling a bike involves more that just arm strength.... learn to apply weight on the footpegs, learn to apply pressure on the gas tank.

I dunno how you go about getting a license where you are, but I remember reading an article in an American motorcycle magazine that mentioned something called the MSCC... the courses they conduct were very highly regarded.... No idea what MSCC stands for, but it did mention that people could enroll through their college... tray asking around.

Point & Squirt

Quote from G-17

I dunno how you go about getting a license where you are, but I remember reading an article in an American motorcycle magazine that mentioned something called the MSCC... the courses they conduct were very highly regarded.... No idea what MSCC stands for, but it did mention that people could enroll through their college... tray asking around.

Yes this sounds like the course I'm taking and thanks for answering my question!

Edit: I passed the course and am getting licensed in 10 days 😀

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