What is the best way to LEARN to ride a MOTORCYCLE?

Question

I have done some reading online and I am wondering if I should take the motorcycle safety class or if I can just buy a starter bike to learn on.

Answer 1

Certainly take the safety course, you can never go wrong there. As for buying a "starter" bike, that one is debatable. For your first bike, (any many people will object to this), get the bike that you want to eventually have, unless at this time you can't afford it. Many reasons for this, and everyone I have recommended this to has thanked me for it: First, if for example you're talking sportbikes, then if you drop a used bike or a new bike and damage the plastic: New bike is most likely covered full converage with insurance...used bike typically no; also, the plastic for a new or used bike is just about the same price, so either way you're paying. Second, with a new bike, your attitude is typically more cautious, therefore, you are likely to slow down and not abuse the bike too much, overall teaching you good riding habits from the beginning. Finally, the learning curve is typically 80% of what you need to know is learned within the first 3-4 months of riding, and if you have a bike you don't really want, you'll get sick of it and want to get rid of it, and "move up."
The key is, when learning, to keep your head and your shoulder and be responsible. I wouldn't recommend and "underpowered" motorcycle, just because you're learning. Learn to ride what you will eventually ride from the beginning. These bikes don't go fast by themselves, their speed is controlled by your right wrist, and THAT is what you have to learn to control. Many big bikes can be fairly tame...even my Hayabusa doesn't become a beast until over 5500 rpms. When learning, you don't need to wind it up that high anyway.
Many people will give you so much advice, and your best bet is to take some from each individual and adopt it to who you are. You should definitely take the safety course, and as for what bike to get...well, that one is up to you, but I thought I'd give you my opinion. Just remember, that nothing will teach you how to ride better than hands-on experience. Good luck.

Answer 2

Best thing to do is take the course. ABATE offers them through most universities now and they are pretty reasonably priced. And you dont even have to own a bike they supply it, all you need is a helmet and riding apparel. They also have the classes at most license branches. But again if you are just starting out or even an experienced rider the course is a good way to get going the right way. Enjoy and keep the shiny side up and the rubber side down.

Answer 3

You can always learn from an experienced rider but nothing beats spending the money and taking a riding course. The courses are designed to teach you not just how to ride but also the small tips that not every rider thinks about. I had been riding my husbands bike but through a course I learned important techniques that even he hadn't realized he was doing.

Motorcycles can be very dangerous and you really need to know what you're doing and be able to anticipate every situation. Professional training can make you a confident, safe rider - spend the money and good luck!

Answer 4

TAKE THE MOTORCYCLE BASIC RIDERS COURSE FIRST! I live in PA and took it this year. Highly recommend it. It will teach you everything you need to ride safely. You have to ride defensively and offensively. It only cost $10. If you aren't from PA, your cost could be higher, much higher.

On a motorcycle, you only get one chance. You will probably lose if you have an accident with another vehicle.

WEAR A HELMET (brain bucket) TOO!

After taking the class, you will know what type of bike you will be ready for.

Answer 5

Safety class first and foremost. If you can afford it, you can certainly buy a starter bike right away, but it may be more prudent to wait until after taking the class.

After you do, you may be more ready to buy more of a keeper bike!

The link below is to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation class, but there are others out there.

Answer 6

Do both if you can.Buy a cheap little dirt bike or something and ride around the yard or back road and get your balance.Sign up for a bike class at your local technical school or go to the DMV and see if they have one.But make sure they offer bikes for you to learn on,as you will have to have a street bike to learn on if they don't.Good luck.

Answer 7

Classes for motorcycle training are @ $300.00 (here in Florida).MY wife is learning to ride. The best to learn is on a 250cc jap bike.they are usually well balanced.Get the feel for the clutch is the most dificult obstacle to over come.The motorcyle training classes will also get your endorsement (here in Fla.).Another good trainer is a Buell.I would highly reccomend the class.It taught me things I thought I knew.Also ALWAYS wear a helmet.I'm writing you today because a helmet saved me from death or a long-term concusion.(landed on my head after a car cut me off,@ 40 mph

Answer 8

Take the class. You will learn many things that you will actually use throughout your riding career and it is a way to try biking without a large upfront cost.

Sign-up for classes through
http://www.msf-usa.org/

Also, there is a guide to the course here
http://www.cyclebasics.com/

Answer 9

you can do it either way. nothing anyone tells you compares to experience, but the motorcycle class teach you how to be a more defensive rider. i personally never took the class, but I've heard that it is very informative.

Answer 10

Buy yourself something with a displacement of 300cc or less, and just ride it. There's nothing to it really, and it won't take you long. Just expect to fall over, and you'll be fine.