Great Advice ! Im 63 , got my Sportster in 09 after more than 25 yrs away from bikes . I will NEVER be as quick or confident a rider as I was back then ,, BUT Im smarter and more cautious AND still having a blast every time I twist the throttle . Ontario Canada .
heh I agree! Just over sixty, and I haven't ridden in decades. One thing I DO know beyond any doubt is, I'm FAR more careful, cautious, and wiser now, than I was back when I was riding all the time! (Youth and exuberance.). I want to Ride to enjoy it, and don't feel 'I' have anything to prove to anyone else. Getting back on a Steel Steed as soon as I can. I need more pony miles under my belt before I enter into the 'Great Mystery.' I want to enjoy it again.
I rode a lot in the early 90s. Usually solo rides, sometimes with my brother. Did an Iron Butt ride, coast highway ride, Baja ride. Daily commutes in rain or heat. Then I quit. 30 years later I wanted to ride again. I am surprised how cautious and scared I can be nowadays. In my 20s I threw caution to the wind. In my fifties, I can’t understand how I was so fearless back then.
I feel ya...grew up on small dirt bikes in west texas...it was just how we got around. Got back into it with heavy street bikes 25 yrs later, in a major city-whole new ballgame! Never heard of the friction zone or counter steering till the last few years. Dont consider myself a good technical rider, just a street survivor. Riding in heavy traffic is very stressful. Avoid it when I can.
Welcome to being grown up! LOL! When you're in your' 20's, you're 10 feet tall, bullet proof, and yep, Immortal! If we live through that stage in life (many don't) we eventually actually DO grow up and learn some responsibility. It took me until I was in my late 50s.
You hit the nail on the head! I've ridden since I was 22 years old. I'm now 72 and just started riding again after being off for about 30 years. I bought a '23 Indian Chief, a Shoei RF-1400 helmet, a Rev'it jacket, gloves, a pair of leather chaps, and I always wear a good pair of boots. Safety first! On RUclips I follow you, MotoJitsu, and Jerry Palladino 'Ride Like A Pro". Start off learning the slow maneuvers, learn how to stop, swerve, and practice, practice, practice. I did 200 miles last Saturday and it was fantastic. There is no better therapy than a great ride! Thank you for your advice and keep creating this great content.
Like you, I’m 73. Just getting back to riding after not being on a bike since 1991! Developed arthritis in my left hand and made us in the clutch painful. Transitioned to a Maxi Scooter that has automatic transmission so no need to fatigue my left hand and suffer pain. Got the bike in late March and continue to practice, but avoiding night riding and passengers for a while until completely confident.
I started riding in 1957 on a cyclemaster all these years later after scooters ,matchless ,Honda ,Yamaha and Harleys ,here I am age 83 on a FLSTF. I am sure the excitement of bikes is the reason I am still here .( oh and did 33 years in semis )
That's so great! I'm 60 getting my Indian scout bobber soon but much more conscious of safety and practice than ever before. There's always more to learn.
Well done video. As a rider with 30 years of experience I still will watch videos like this, as well, as the instructionals for experienced riders. Never stop learning.
I been riding for over 55 years , and still ride in my 70's , been in 2 accidents were it was not my fault . I am very careful about riding as I live in Central Florida . I do not ride during the hours on the weekdays from 7 am to 10 , and the Worst stay off the roads from 3 pm to 7 pm . I look for side roads were there is just little traffic . Always I cuff my clutch and brakes and I slow down when going through intersections which most motorcycle accidents occured . Always I watch my speed and never drink , and I am all lit up when I ride wearing a White helmet , and bright clothing so you want to be seen . I have great lighting on front and back , where my lights flash when I come to a stop also I allways run my passing lamps and I have another pair of bright fog lights on my crash bar . Ride on , as I am buying my last bike as my 3rd Indian Chieftain Limited , also I ride a 2007 Harley Heritage , a1969 Triumph Bonneville and a 1979 Honda cb 750 all stock . My favorite and most comfy and fast bike is the 116 cu in Indian . RIDE ON .
@@SalRuggiero In all my years of riding, the only time I've had issues with other traffic is with people driving to and from work. They're thinking about everything but driving.
I went for 30 years without riding. I'm 54 now and just got back into the saddle 3 weeks ago when I bought a new bike right off the showroom floor. First was a helmet and new leathers head to toe, then the MSF basic rider course, because I knew I was way out of date on my skills and really didn't know what I had forgotten in between then and now. Great content and I agree with everything you said here. Riding inside your skill set will always be the key to making it to the next ride.
I highly recommend everyone practice slow maneuvers, it is a skill that goes away if you don't continue to practice it. I got friends that have ridden for 30 years and have never practiced this, and like Robert Simmons talks about, you can spot them a mile away. PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE!!! It really is that important.
Why? What's wrong with duck walking when you're slow? In 40 years of riding I've never once been in a situation where I HAD to do a U-turn in a parking spot and couldn't put my feet down. I've never HAD to weave through cones or anything like them. I'd much much rather all riders get competent at high speed handling. Emergency engine braking, progressive braking, skid control, reducing radius turns. High speed, even moderate speed accidents is where the bodies are... Who has ever died in a parking lot accident? We do a huge disservice to all riders when we promote skills that simply aren't required and then go as far as to make fun of those who don't possess them. You want to do a tight U-turn and never drop your bike? Put your feet down and walk it around. Perfectly safe, perfectly acceptable, 100% chance of success. Why drop your bike 30 times practicing not dropping your bike?
I'm a new rider but I've already taken a couple advanced courses at race tracks which I highly recommend. Besides being great fun because there is no speed limit, learning things where speed is a factor like cornering, trail braking, emergency braking and swerving can't really be done in a parking lot and for the most part aren't really safe to practice on the road.
New rider here, and I love videos like this. There are some things that I think are pretty self-explanatory, but then the experienced riders always throw in a few things that make me say "Oh that's brilliant!" - thanks for putting this together, and I'll be watching more.
My pet peace when riding with others is their haste in pulling from an intersection. I’m a trucker by trade and I guess I’m just used to the time / distance it takes to merge a 53’ trailer, so when my buddies run off and leave me at an intersection, I just wave bye bye! 20:55
Started back riding after having been off it for a while. It was a different type bike than I rode before. More top heavy and I am older. I fell over when stopping 4 or five times till I went back to basics and practised at slow speed and guit freaking out, causing me to over react. I do love to ride, but I had take time to learn my bike, how it will act is essential to know so I can trust it and myself.
Very good video I'm almost 71 and got back into riding about 8 years ago my bike when I stopped riding back when I was 30 was an old pan head chopper when I started riding again I bought a road king it was quite a change. I wouldn't take my wife until I had 6 months under my belt. I watched a ton of u-tube videos an practiced what they teach you can learn a ton from them! Last year we put 15000 miles on and we're very comfortable on our ultra limited but also very aware of the surroundings. My advise is to keep your head on a swivel and never let down your guard!!! Ride safe!!!
Good advice. Although I've had a full driving licence almost 30 years, I'm new to motorcycles. I totally underestimated just how different it is! One year and two thousand miles on: I'm still learning.
Like what you’re saying. Be riding since I was 12 years old. I’m pushing the big 80. Never stopped riding since then except for my educational program provided to me by the USArmy in the late sixties via The Vietnam experience. After that thrill ride. Came home in one piece. Started up riding again, cause it was my best therapist I could buy. The Veterans Administration was worthless for help. Traveled the states working odd jobs and getting my head and soul cleared. Here to say one don’t find a motorcycle parked in front of a therapist office. Got to keep riding, if ya don’t use it you’ll soon lose it. Been riding for about 67 years and I’m not thinking of stopping. I’ve still got my best friend a 1963 Harley that’s an old retired cop bike. It’s got its old ways, but it keeps up with the flow of traffic. Had this bike since I was in high school. Been overhauled several times and it’s just as happy as I’m. This bike gets the eye balls where ever I putt. I’m very careful who I ride with. Never group up. Especially with beginners on the road. In 1985, bought a new soft tail with that early evo engine. Still got that girl and it’s got to run with it also. Don’t care for the twin cam stuff. Those seem to be a problem child. Never would I buy any of the new stuff. Junk is a good word for that engineering and all that electrical crap. Can’t fix it without the magic computer. I’m of course the stuck in the mud old school. Don’t like dealers too much. They’ll make ya poor real quick and won’t remember you later with some exceptions. You’re right don’t drink and ride! A death sentence. Not the drug thing. Ya need the head clear while riding. Keep the two wheel up on the road, look where you’re at all times.
Hi there from the UK. Thanks for this. I've ridden bikes all my life ( and taken advanced training) but in recently years just 70s bikes I've restored. I've now bought a 1250 GS and even though I've never been off 2 wheels I consider myself a returning rider just due to the huge power increase, and am being really careful and practicing lots-and wearing all the gear. I love a beer but NEVER drink when I'm on the bike...ever.... motorcycling is just too unforgiving and a reduction of concentration and clear decision making can end badly, or VERY badly. Thanks again
Excellent points. On drinking and bars: there are a lot more non-alcoholic beers out there than there used to be, and they're surprisingly really good. If you want the experience of going out for a couple beers, you can still do that without introducing alcohol to your riding. Also, on passengers: About a year into riding again I learned to ride with a pillion who was VERY experienced passenger; it meant that I could develop skills with someone who knew how to reduce their impact on my riding. Once I got the hang of it, they then started to intentionally ride 'like an inexperienced passenger' allowing me to learn that, too.
Great advice! A couple of years back I stumbled across the videos made by Mc Rider and I suddenly realized I wasn't the "expert, know it all rider" whom I considered my self to be. I share your view of taking advantage of all the RUclips videos out there that can add to our knowledge. Congratulations on this great video.
I agree with you as far as what you said about just because you are on two wheels doesn't mean you are gonna have an accident. I don't agree with dropping your bike. I have a Suzuki and a Harley Davidson breakout. Never dropped either bike. Good video. Everyone please be safe
100% not true. Learning how to slip the clutch in a parking lot does nothing whatsoever to help you at 70 MPH. Doing minimum radius U-turns and weaving through cones uses completely different skills than handling any situation at speed. It makes you more skilled at doing minimum radius U-turns when, and only when, you find yourself in a situation where you have to make a minimum radius U-turn and, for some reason I can't fathom, you can't put your feet down and duck walk the bike. The police... I get it. They can't take the time to duck walk a bike. But you and I and every other rider can. We can simply come to a full stop, turn the wheel hard and walk the bike around. Why do we think that's a sign of a lesser rider? I watched a guy drop his bike 4 times practicing and I asked him why he was doing that. He said "so I don't drop my bike". Are those guys more skilled riders? I'd say "sure, you bet"... But so are those guys doing wheelies, front tire pivots, and drifting while sitting backwards. Are those making fun of us for not developing those skills? They're skills to be sure, elite skills, but there's no reason to have them except to have them.
@@darrylbraun8520 ~ I agree with most of what you said except the absolutely not true part. The skills DO translate. I’m not talking about that silly “rule “ about duck walking either. But learning your bike’s abilities at slow speeds definitely translates to higher speeds.
@@darrylbraun8520if you are duck walking a bike, you aren’t comfortable enough to take advantage of a bikes capabilities at higher speeds either. Duck walking a bike is also a great way to slip, drop the bike and break your ankle. You don’t know what you don’t know.
@@brianm5637 I could make the exact same argument for not being able to do standing wheelies and front wheel brake pivots. Those are, after all, within the bike's capabilities and the overwhelmingly vast majority of riders are not comfortable with them. Those same uncomfortable riders are also perfectly capable to ride, at speed, loaded up with a passenger and pulling a trailer. I haven't looked it up but I'm going to be so bold as to suggest that the majority of bike accidents have nothing whatsoever to do with slow riding skills. In fact, I'll suggest that the majority of accidents involve other vehicles at, at least, cruising speeds. I've never talked to an accident victim after T-boning a car who said "I don't get it... I practiced u-turns all summer". Slow riding skills make you a better SLOW RIDER, nothing else And slow is not where the accidents are happening. Skid control, emergency braking, brake and avoid... Those are the skills that keep you alive at speed and nobody, NOBODY is suggesting that all riders should be comfortable locking up the back wheel at 80 and laying that bike over, into a full recovery. The first time riders ever learn to skid their bike is when their life is on the line. And we keep pushing parking lot u-turns as the skill that will save your bacon. I stand amazed at people who can do that with confidence, it's truly impressive, But it's not going to save them when they have to manage a two wheel skid approaching a cliff in a decreasing radius curve.
Thank you so much for bringing up the dangers of drinking while riding. I personally would have liked it listed number 1. It drives me crazy when I drive past bars all times of day with lines of bikes out front (as in New Hope PA on the weekends) Also recently I had to ask specifically if my dealer had water since there was a whole variety of just free beer lined up. There are probably a few reasons why experienced riders don't have as many accidents. One is that they survived through the learning process and not all do. Second I find that operating the bike becomes instinctive thus allowing better awareness of surrounding drivers and the ability to concentrate on what their actions may be. It's not always easy to figure out what cagers will do here in Philly.
The last thing I do before putting it in gear, is tell myself that I am invisible when I get out there, and everyone is trying to run me over. Continuous situational awareness is a must, to survive.
The thought of alcohol and riding my bike seems completely daft. That said, i have had the occasional beer and riden. But it is only the one. Definitely blurs your performance. Not helpful.
Great video , returning rider , 10 plus yr drought , enrolled in a beginners class , got my learners permit , my first harley dyna switchback, I don't wanna lay her down
As a former 'Rider Coach" of the basic course through the MSF, I couldn't agree more with this, BUT...we were strictly admonished if we even sat on a bike without all the safety gear, Helmet, full fingered gloves, long sleeve something, jacket preferred, and eye protection. I noticed several omissions of these 'rules' in your videos, we were told repeatedly, "perfect' practice makes perfect, so many students had bad habits to overcome, before they could learn new ones. We felt we were making safer riders, and I know all that practicing on my part made me a better rider. Over-confidence is as dangerous as being too timid. Thanks for your posting!!
This is my first full season on my bike. I went old and small for my first bike (89 Virago 250cc) I am telling you, taking a course is the best thing you can do for yourself. I learned a lot through Learning Curves. One thing I found that I had to correct in the course, and have to be mindful of every ride is target fixation.
Even once having some experience, if someone has a second person on their bike as a passenger, it is mandatory to tell them to sit still and not make any abrupt movements . I had one gal who was excited to enjoy a ride and while we were moving, she wanted to go faster. She reached over my arm and tried to twist my hand on the throttle. That caught me off guard and could have become a MIS-HAP ....ouch. Some folks you need a 2 X 4 to get their attention. Ride safe.
Great advice - been riding for 5 years and I was pleased to hear I do all 7 of these tips without even knowing about it! Took the class, got my license, wear ATGATT, practice with cones, don't drink (easy for me), dropped my bike and picked it up myself because I practiced it, never ride outside my comfort zone, and never ride with more than 5 others (mostly solo). Where I live I avoid dusk and dawn - too many critters. I would add one thing - if you are a regular backpack and are going on trips - learn how to handle the bike. It doesn't have to be an accident but the rider can trip and break a toe, get something in their eye or be pinned under the bike. Learn how to take off the bags to lighten the load, learn how to pick up the bike and god forbid - ride to help or a better cell signal. Be an active passenger. Thanks again.
Hello from the Republic of Ireland. I made the mistake (kinda) of buying a Honda Blackbird. I'm very short (5' 4" on a good day) and I was on my tippy toes when trying to maneuver at low speeds. Although, performance wise it was amazing...the power delivery and handling. My last bike was 2015 Yamaha MT-09. My dream lottery win bike is a Ducati Diavel V4. Stay safe on the road and your video is great.
I’m looking at getting a new bike and have been trying to figure out how to get my wife to agree…. I just got the answer, Hegshot said avoid your wife! PERFECT someone is getting a new BIKE!!!
I don't know how the EweTube algorithm knew to show me your video/Channel, but I'm happy it did! 😀 I haven't ridden a Steel Steed in decades. I retired my beloved GL1100 in the early 90's (Got tired of so many FOOLS trying to smear me/my wife across the roadways), and I've missed Riding ever since. 100% agree with you about the 'Perishable Skill!' I KNOW my skills have degraded, and I haven't kept up on new laws/regulations/etc.. I'm currently looking to get back into this, will start with a comfortable 500cc or so, and relearn. I'm not so arrogant that I'm afraid to say I need the extra training/practice! Thank you for your great video and perspectives! (Also, very nice set of 'Tools' ya got in the background!) Got yerself another Subscriber, and I look forward to catching-up on the videos you've already posted! :-D
I just want to add a note about the "duck walking" in the MSF Basic Rides Course. There is only two time that riders are instructed to power walk or duck walk as you called it. The first time is during part of exercise 2. This is the first exercise with the motorcycle moving under its own power. The intent of that part of the exercise is for people to practice using the fiction zone. So the speeds should be too low for most people to balance if they have no previous experience. (Yes there are some instructors that permit rider to have the clutch continuously fully engaged when the motorcycle is in motion. This has the riders going too fast during this part of the exercise. I have seen this happen. The result was the riders had a lot of troubles with the low speed maneuvers later in the class.) The other time is while changing directions during exercise 3. This is done mostly for safety considerations. From exercise 4 on riders are expected to ride, not power walk. BTW, I often hear comments that the MSF BRC is not very useful because the speeds are under fifteen or twenty mph. The truth is, on a full size range, to pass the test with a good score a rider must go over 20 mph. More like 25 mph. I have seen speeds noticeable higher than that. It should also be noted that in the USA the average speed for a fatal crash is still under 40 mph the last time I checked. The "Hurt Report" that was done in the late 1970's found an average speed of a fatal crash was 32 mph. That is a speed that isn't unusual to see in a MSF BRC.
Preach it. As I return, I am appalled to see the lack of respect for the motorcycle,which is shots, flip flops, and tank tops. I was raised and taught differently
Excellent video, thank you. My golden rule, that all my buddies know, is I don't touch alcohol when I ride during the day, never! When we stop for the night and go(walk) for a steak, a beer is definitely on the menu but during the day, while riding, Never!
Always wanted to learn how to ride. At 50+, passed the MSF basic course, watched a lot of videos (MC Rider, Motojitsu, Moto Control, DanDan, Boss of Your Motorcycle, and few others). Got full riding gear. Bought my first bike new just over 2yrs and had it delivered. Only knew two other riders at the time. Haven't looked back! Met a few other riders since. Took a second MSF course since. Last big ride was 200miles...enjoyed it! Always working on skills, especially slow. Always ride my ride.!
As a biker it takes a few years to get to achieve the correct skills, awareness, anticipation - I also drive a car which I feel makes me more skilful than the car drivers that have never ridden a motorcycle.
I started riding in 1964 and rode consistently up until 1982. From 1982 until 1989 I rode a small bike to teach my son. Taking an unavoidable break from 1989 to 2016 I decided to get another bike, not too big and not too small, just a Honda Nighthawk CB450SC. I had two accidents involving a traffic light turning green and a car trying to quickly make a left turn from the opposite direction. Those were in 1965 and 1968. I did learn from my mistakes as I had to teach myself how to ride! There was no MC licence or riding courses to be had back then. I now ride a Honda Magna VF750C.I still get an adrenaline rush when I find a clear run that is safe to get up to 140 to 160 kph, My head is always on a swivel watching every intersection, traffic in front, behind and to either side of me. Due to my body getting weaker as I approach 80 next year, I will likely be hanging up my leathers and passing things on to my son. Anytime I have ever needed to clear my mind, a decent ride has done the trick! No regrets here!
I just bought a new (to me) bike after a decade away from riding. I've been watching your pew videos for a while now, and this came up when I was looking for videos about starting over riding. It's nice to see a familiar face and I'm glad you have both channels. Keep up the good work.
Here is a major safety item that you missed. Get rid of that "Batwing Dash" as it is totally blocking your view of the road in front of you. A friend of mine hit a bear cub that suddenly ran out on the road, and he never saw the bear. Toppled his Harley Ultra Glide with injuries to him and several hundred dollars damage to the bike. The bear died when hit. Check out your video at 3:58
Whaaattt?? Yeah it was the batwing dash 2 feet in front of his head that caused the crash.... Yeah I believe that one, like I believe the "I had to lay it down" guys.
Brother man I hear you loud and clear. 40+ years of riding in Southern California. I finally got hit by Cager that broke just about every bone on the left-hand side of my body. This happened three years ago, I’m finally recovered enough to ride again. I had on all the top notch gear riding jacket/riding pants. Full face SHOEI NEOTEC flip up.. Left side of the helmet was completely tore up as I slid across the lanes of traffic. The full face helmet saved my life.!!!… it is only thing that I will put on my head. Full face helmet all the way. Anyways, love the content you be safe out there, and make sure you wear all the gear all the time.
Good video, I learned to ride on a minibike, then it was a 125c dirt bike, then a 250 enduro, then it became the 1976 750- four, wow that was a change. and my bikes just keep getting faster and faster, Well, maybe not the 76 Shovelhead, but. I like riding without a helmet but for the last 20 years or more I have always used one, I never have had a wreck, but I been there when they have happened, someone write that check that their skill can't cash. The best advice I can give to someone is always think that it will go wrong. that car will pull out or change lanes, and just be sure of what you are going to do when it happens. if there is a plan you will just have a new story to tell.
Good video 👍. My comment about helmets is not only buy the best you can afford, but buy the style that allows you to see the most. You can spend over a $1,000 on a shoei neotec 3 with optional blue tooth, but if you are a non interstate rider, and want to ride around the city, then being distracted with music and having a heavy modular helmet that limits your peripheral vision is less safe then an open face or half helmet.that allows you to see cars on either side of you.
These are excellent recommendations. If people follow these simple and straightforward 7 guidelines, they have reduced their chances of accidents and of riding safely exponentially. Great vid. Thanks for putting it out there.
I remember when I just started riding, I was pulling in for fuel and when I got to the pump I put my left leg down only to slip on the diesel/petrol that was on the ground. I really don’t know how I didn’t drop my bike but my friggin groin hurt from a few days later, I almost did the splits whilst on a motorcycle. Now I’m super careful about oil, fuel and coolant that is near the pumps. Cheers mate and thanx heaps for the tips! 👍🇦🇺Ride safe land lovers
As a new rider with only 2,000 miles on a bike I'd say the top issue new riders should be most vigilant about is cornering. Speed and target fixation are two things I find myself thinking about in every corner. A new rider could easily find themselves running off the road or into the opposite lane if they're not looking far enough ahead on a corner. As soon as I start looking further up the corner almost immediately I correct my balance and cornering line. Also, trying to judge how fast I can take that corner is still something I find myself learning. I generally take the corners about 10 to 15mph over the suggested mph signs. If the sign recommends 45mph corner then I know I should be fine going 55mph. And again, I'm learning that the further I look out in front helps me take the corner quicker. Improving my cornering takes practice and patience. I make sure I ride within my skill level and only slightly push myself outside that when learning. Hopefully one day I can take these corners like a seasoned rider.
I have a brother with a TBI. He didn't get that injury on a bike, it happened in a car, but it really drives the point home that head injuries are no joke. My brother's passenger walked away, and externally he had minimal trauma if any, but he was semi-conscious immediately after the crash and spent several days in a medically induced coma. Now he can't drive at all, he tried going back to work and wasn't able to do that. His voice and vision are affected and he's had profound personalty changes. So give your head the best protection you can. It's not just about whether or not you live, it's also about how your life can change after an accident.
I gotta tell ya. I've been riding Motorcycles since I was 14 years old. I am now 59, and I'll be 60 in just over two weeks. I have always had a difficult time finding a properly fitted Helmut. The fut of a Helmut is just as important as wearing one, if not more! Just saying, people should, as you stated, not skimp on a Helmut and be sure the darn thing fits correctly! Great videos! Thanks for doing them. I was considering buying a 2024 Street Glide, but after seeing the issues you had, I may wait a year. See if they can get those electronic bugs out...
Choose a bike that you re capable of handling, not the biggest and heaviest thing on the market. Once you have develop your riding skills then consider going to the dream bike. It is not about power and speed, heavy weight and awkward manhandling make a big difference to a new rider. Once you have the skills weight and size are not as significant an issue.
I quit riding for over 30 years and started again after I retired. I was surprised at how much skill I had lost and how much I had to practice to get back into riding. I've been riding now for 5 years and I'm 72, I'm taking it one step at a time and practicing my figure 8's. I kept my Motorcycle license all these years so I didn't have to retake the test but I'm considering going down and going through the course anyway to see how I do. I watch all these safety video's and like yours and I watch Doodle on a motorcycle once in a while also. She's got a lot of safety video's also.
last point - passengers: i think you need to give passengers some basic tips........ watch the road to avoid banging helmets, or doing the monkey-back on the brakes. sit still as a still thing when riding slowly etc etc.
Heg, I agree with everything you said, and yes a good Modular or Fullface helmet is the only way to ensure proper head protection. A protective pair of gloves, jacket, pants and boots are also very important. Another very important item to have is a decent mini air compressor to ensure your tires are properly inflated before and during a ride to ensure proper handling to prevent accidents !
DON'T adjust your tyre pressures mid ride - unless you had a puncture or other event. tyre pressures should be set when the tyres are cold - like first thing in the morning before you start your ride. read your manual?
In colombia now is mandatory for a license training 28 hours theorical and 16 hours practicing, they also train you with the instructor as a passenger so you can be prepare for it. And I keep practicing over and over the basics. My friends even convince me to have a 150 cc motorcycle before getting something bigger to get the basic skills so I can in the future get the 650 cc cruser I want. They where right. My first accident was with a oil stain on the road left by a truck at 12 miles per hour becuase I had all my gear nothing really happened
Good advice video. Well done. There’s two kinds of riders: Those who have crashed and those who will.” ― Anonymous “The older I get, the faster I was. There are old bikers and there are bold bikers, but there are no old, bold bikers.” ― Evel Knievel
ATGATT, All the gear all the time. No denying that it is an inherently dangerous activity and that is one reason we do it. Helmets have saved my life 3 times on motorcycles and many times on a bicycle. Also I wear an airbag vest always. I know what it feels like crashing and how something minor is a non-event for physical damage to me but would have been serious even fatal without gear. Sleeping with road rash sucks, you stick to the sheets. Watch GP racing and see how those guys wear a full airbag suit (mandatory last 15 years) and usually walk away after crashing at over 150 MPH.
Good video. Practice, practice, practice, I've been riding street bikes since I was 13 and I'm now 48. I still frequently spend time in parking lots honing my slow speed skills and emergency braking. I recently took an advanced riders course and am considering taking another.
Here in Washington state to legally ride a motorcycle you have to complete a New rider class which is two day class and on the second a written test and a physical ride test in order to get the endorsement on ur driver license by law. There are also a couple dealerships that offer a Advance riders class as well.
Dude, the run up to your MSF, you showed a clip of a guy not wearing a helmet. The previous safety suggestion.... yup, helmets. I went through an MSF, we wore helmets. But really, great video, thank you!! I have a great rider buddy. He watches out for me, just like you mentioned. And I look out for him. He's a great riding buddy.
i bought a used vstar 650 with 7k miles, and i wish i never did the bike spent more time in the shop than riding it because of electrical issues. based on my experience, you can't trust people , and dealerships sucks
New rider as of September 2023. "avoid bikes without abs" lol. My 01 sporty doesn't have abs and I got into an accident in March when a truck slammed on their brakes in front of me and I walked at my brakes, fishtailed and hit their trailer hitch at 35. Needless to say I learned two things from that experience. First, increase my following distance because I could have easily avoided that if I wasn't as close as I was. And second, ABS sure would have been nice lol
I finally got a motorcycle license after riding for 30 years. It is an issue if you have a commercial license. You have to take every test. Anyhow I had to renew so I enrolled in the motorcycle riding school. Actually, I had a great time and was so happy to see the new riders improve.
That is what this video was for.. If you can't read, the thumb nail said this video was "common mistakes for new riders" so what exactly is your complaint here?
In our INDIA... LOTS of motorcycle rider go for cheapest HELMET they possibly get. First of all they DON'T buy a HELMET to save their head from any Fatal head injuries... They buy a HELMET to save " fine - money " which they gotta have to pay to a TRAFFIC POLICE for NOT wearing a Helmet .... !!!!!! 👀 As a Rider... I'm pretty serious on choosing a GOOD HELMET. I bought a mid budget Helmet : LS 2 Which have safety certification of ECE on it.. But it's always better if one could go for more expensive one . ( More money.. MORE SAFETY 😅 ).
I'm fairly experienced, been riding for years, but have all just been leisurely riding, but as of recently, I've been thinking about track days. As I look into this, there's one thing I've been hearing a lot about. "Trail braking." While I've come to accept this is the best (fastest) method for track riding, what about gravel and other obstacles you're likely to encounter in the wild. It seems like hitting loose/wet surfacesIf while turning, and on my front brake, is the stuff of my nightmares. If I remember correctly the literature for the temps test warns against using your front brake in anything but a straight line. I'm not criticizing, just curious of your thoughts. Thanks for the video!
One thing I’d add to this: if you’re going to ride, ride frequently, and challenge yourself to gain proficiency. I’m not saying to go faster than you should or to take foolish risks. Just get more adept at dealing with adversity, such as traffic, changing road conditions, adverse weather, etc. And ride often (at least a couple times a week if you can). I still do. Don’t kid yourself into thinking you’ll be just fine riding every once in a while. Everyone needs to practice, and to do so frequently. Riding isn’t just a perishable skill for those who have ridden before, but haven’t done so for some number of years. It can be perishable much sooner than that. A few years ago, a buddy of mine, who only rode typically about once every 3-4 months, fell victim to that in a solo accident that was very surprising it even happened. And it wasn’t just one failure. He still could have recovered after his first failure. But his second failure sealed it. All of it was his fault and due to glaring errors in his ability, which in my opinion, was because he didn’t ride nearly enough and didn’t recognize that he needed to. Oh he’s fine, and was extremely lucky to come out of it with relatively minor injuries. But he totaled his bike. He swore off riding after that.
I bought first all my riding gear and then new MT07 to learn on because in my country you can't find one used people love this bike. My dream bike is cruiser bike at the end but i am 35 now and want to learn how to ride properly first then go to Harley or Indian.
Gear, Gear, Gear. Buy it, use it, do not go around the block without it. Gear will save your life. A good friend wrecked at 75 MPH on the freeway. He and the bike ended up in the median. The bike was a big bagger and was totaled. He was launched and only broke a few ribs. He was in full gear on a hot summer day. His helmet was destroyed, and the riding leathers were torn. He had minimal abrasions. Had he not been geared up, he would have died.
Just got back on my bike after a 20 year break after three months riding I did drop it once in the parking lot doing tight turns and figure eights doing way better now but was so embarrassed I did it
Lot good info. Buttttt I do disagree with ABS brakes. I know a lot of Abs malfunction ed and maintenance on them. I trust my experience, the feel of the bike, and yes endoresement training. Brakes, performance machine are the best. ANDDDDDD yes loud pipes saves lives .
I would say number one is get your licence and take the motorcycle safety course. I have seen way to many people that do not know how to counter-steer or ride slow speed with using there rear breaks at slow speed to help control the bike etc..
In my experience expensive helmets include comfort features like padding and ventilation, they do not necessarily provide more protection than a basic lid that is DOT certified.
grandfathered in on my mc, and class a. been riding since i was a kid, and 18wheels since i was 18. at 62, there are things i practice as a rider, that i have never seen talked about on youtube. #1 interstate riding, never ride beside an 18 wheeler. those tires are set at 120psi, that tire comes off the rim, it takes you with it. no gear, no time to react, if you survive to ride another day, lucky you. i ride close enough to keep a car from cutting me off, but stay behind that semi until traffic has cleared the front bumper, only then do i pass. i do so quickly, and with purpose. i put a gap between the truck, and myself, the merge right. i see guys hanging out besides trucks, and they have no clue the danger they are in. those tire gators on the road, are examples of a tire coming off the rim. #2 in town, at stop signs / lights, i sit right or left of the vehicle in front of me, where my best escape path is. #3 never neutral your bike at a stop sign / light, find a lot to roll into, if you / it has issues. i dont wear a helmet, rarely have, didnt wear a mask during covid. dont pop off at me about it, and i wont point and laugh at you for it. simple, we're all adults.
So I know of one person I don’t know this person personally but this individual had over 2,000,000 miles on two wheels and he never went down and then he was on highway one day and he got rear ended by a truck while he was riding on the highway he wasn’t stopped so yeah of course statistically if you ride along enough eventually you will either go down or crash but if you do everything you can within your power to minimize your risk with road skills road strategy and anything else you can do it can be a very long time before that finally happens And this person had absolutely avoided accidents. I know of one scenario where he was waiting behind a car at a light and he noticed a car was coming up behind him pretty quick. He had to get out of the way and he did and then that vehicle rear ended the car in front of him if he stayed there, he would’ve been crushed so he had avoided numerous accidents throughout that 2,000,000 miles before he got rear ended by that truck, stay safe out there and whatever is in your control to make yourself more likely to not be an accident. You should definitely do that when he finally had this accident. He was wearing all of his safety gear so he did definitely get injured and we’re not entirely sure if he’s gonna make 100% recovery but he’s probably gonna make it 90% recovery but it’s going to take years for him to get as back as he could be, his helmet and jacket got trashed along with his lower protective gear. He wasn’t wearing a helmet. He very likely would’ve been dead. Do not cheap out on the helmet and if you only wear one piece of safety gear, make sure it is the helmet.
@@DF-ss5ep I made a grammatical error. He was wearing a helmet. It was a full face helmet, and it was high-quality helmet and the helmet also got trashed and the front pair of his face shield got scratched all to hell and the protective part of the face mask that you see through got destroyed, but his face was completely protected by the helmet that helmet 100% saved his life
Dot helmet i got given is way better than bike helmet ! Rotwaller next door hates my 650 savage- but full helm up side his head.. he not get as close anymore.. luv my full helm ! 2 down - swing 4 the fences.
Great vid. I’m a newer, midlife crisis rider. Started riding in 2019 at 53, never been on a motorcycle before then. Riding a Roadking now, have about 40k miles w/o a serious incident. Took MSF class, paid for itself with insurance credit. 2 things I’ve realized, whatever helmet you get, have it fitted by someone who knows what they are doing. Situational awareness is critical to staying safe. Know what is going on around you and be 30 seconds ahead of where you are.
I got my license in the 80's after I took the MSF course. I stopped riding to raise my boys. Now I'm getting back into it. I looked into the MSF class and found it's $380. WoW, I know prices go up but from $55. Anyway I have found the RUclipsrs are a lot help and the parking lot is my friend. I was riding an 78 fully loaded Goldwing and decided to scale down and get a Sportster. WoW, Going from a couch on wheels to a horse. 😅
The big reason the beginner MSF course is so expensive is equipment; they supply the bikes and those bikes live a hard life. Later courses are much cheaper because you bring your own.
Great Advice ! Im 63 , got my Sportster in 09 after more than 25 yrs away from bikes . I will NEVER be as quick or confident a rider as I was back then ,, BUT Im smarter and more cautious AND still having a blast every time I twist the throttle . Ontario Canada .
heh
I agree!
Just over sixty, and I haven't ridden in decades.
One thing I DO know beyond any doubt is, I'm FAR more careful, cautious, and wiser now, than I was back when I was riding all the time! (Youth and exuberance.).
I want to Ride to enjoy it, and don't feel 'I' have anything to prove to anyone else.
Getting back on a Steel Steed as soon as I can. I need more pony miles under my belt before I enter into the 'Great Mystery.'
I want to enjoy it again.
I rode a lot in the early 90s. Usually solo rides, sometimes with my brother. Did an Iron Butt ride, coast highway ride, Baja ride. Daily commutes in rain or heat. Then I quit. 30 years later I wanted to ride again. I am surprised how cautious and scared I can be nowadays. In my 20s I threw caution to the wind. In my fifties, I can’t understand how I was so fearless back then.
I feel ya...grew up on small dirt bikes in west texas...it was just how we got around. Got back into it with heavy street bikes 25 yrs later, in a major city-whole new ballgame!
Never heard of the friction zone or counter steering till the last few years.
Dont consider myself a good technical rider, just a street survivor. Riding in heavy traffic is very stressful. Avoid it when I can.
Welcome to being grown up! LOL! When you're in your' 20's, you're 10 feet tall, bullet proof, and yep, Immortal! If we live through that stage in life (many don't) we eventually actually DO grow up and learn some responsibility. It took me until I was in my late 50s.
If you dont know, you dont fear. Now you know.
age provides the knowledge that some injuries never really heal
I had a low side get-off in my 20's. My left knee is getting better and better at letting me know that its going to rain. Lol
.@dumbcat
You hit the nail on the head! I've ridden since I was 22 years old. I'm now 72 and just started riding again after being off for about 30 years. I bought a '23 Indian Chief, a Shoei RF-1400 helmet, a Rev'it jacket, gloves, a pair of leather chaps, and I always wear a good pair of boots. Safety first! On RUclips I follow you, MotoJitsu, and Jerry Palladino 'Ride Like A Pro". Start off learning the slow maneuvers, learn how to stop, swerve, and practice, practice, practice. I did 200 miles last Saturday and it was fantastic. There is no better therapy than a great ride! Thank you for your advice and keep creating this great content.
Good comment! I started riding steadily when I was 22 and I'm now 73.
Like you, I’m 73. Just getting back to riding after not being on a bike since 1991! Developed arthritis in my left hand and made us in the clutch painful. Transitioned to a Maxi Scooter that has automatic transmission so no need to fatigue my left hand and suffer pain. Got the bike in late March and continue to practice, but avoiding night riding and passengers for a while until completely confident.
I started riding in 1957 on a cyclemaster all these years later after scooters ,matchless ,Honda ,Yamaha and Harleys ,here I am age 83 on a FLSTF.
I am sure the excitement of bikes is the reason I am still here .( oh and did 33 years in semis )
That's so great! I'm 60 getting my Indian scout bobber soon but much more conscious of safety and practice than ever before. There's always more to learn.
@@GiannaFiore Yes ,you will be ok ,just treat everyone else on the road as idiots ,and don't get up the side of big trucks.
Well done video. As a rider with 30 years of experience I still will watch videos like this, as well, as the instructionals for experienced riders. Never stop learning.
💯 percent
I been riding for over 55 years , and still ride in my 70's , been in 2 accidents were it was not my fault . I am very careful about riding as I live in Central Florida . I do not ride during the hours on the weekdays from 7 am to 10 , and the Worst stay off the roads from 3 pm to 7 pm . I look for side roads were there is just little traffic . Always I cuff my clutch and brakes and I slow down when going through intersections which most motorcycle accidents occured . Always I watch my speed and never drink , and I am all lit up when I ride wearing a White helmet , and bright clothing so you want to be seen . I have great lighting on front and back , where my lights flash when I come to a stop also I allways run my passing lamps and I have another pair of bright fog lights on my crash bar . Ride on , as I am buying my last bike as my 3rd Indian Chieftain Limited , also I ride a 2007 Harley Heritage , a1969 Triumph Bonneville and a 1979 Honda cb 750 all stock . My favorite and most comfy and fast bike is the 116 cu in Indian . RIDE ON .
@@SalRuggiero In all my years of riding, the only time I've had issues with other traffic is with people driving to and from work. They're thinking about everything but driving.
I went for 30 years without riding. I'm 54 now and just got back into the saddle 3 weeks ago when I bought a new bike right off the showroom floor. First was a helmet and new leathers head to toe, then the MSF basic rider course, because I knew I was way out of date on my skills and really didn't know what I had forgotten in between then and now. Great content and I agree with everything you said here. Riding inside your skill set will always be the key to making it to the next ride.
I highly recommend everyone practice slow maneuvers, it is a skill that goes away if you don't continue to practice it. I got friends that have ridden for 30 years and have never practiced this, and like Robert Simmons talks about, you can spot them a mile away. PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE!!! It really is that important.
Why? What's wrong with duck walking when you're slow? In 40 years of riding I've never once been in a situation where I HAD to do a U-turn in a parking spot and couldn't put my feet down. I've never HAD to weave through cones or anything like them. I'd much much rather all riders get competent at high speed handling. Emergency engine braking, progressive braking, skid control, reducing radius turns. High speed, even moderate speed accidents is where the bodies are... Who has ever died in a parking lot accident? We do a huge disservice to all riders when we promote skills that simply aren't required and then go as far as to make fun of those who don't possess them. You want to do a tight U-turn and never drop your bike? Put your feet down and walk it around. Perfectly safe, perfectly acceptable, 100% chance of success. Why drop your bike 30 times practicing not dropping your bike?
You missed the whole point of this video!
I'm a new rider but I've already taken a couple advanced courses at race tracks which I highly recommend. Besides being great fun because there is no speed limit, learning things where speed is a factor like cornering, trail braking, emergency braking and swerving can't really be done in a parking lot and for the most part aren't really safe to practice on the road.
New rider here, and I love videos like this. There are some things that I think are pretty self-explanatory, but then the experienced riders always throw in a few things that make me say "Oh that's brilliant!" - thanks for putting this together, and I'll be watching more.
My pet peace when riding with others is their haste in pulling from an intersection. I’m a trucker by trade and I guess I’m just used to the time / distance it takes to merge a 53’ trailer, so when my buddies run off and leave me at an intersection, I just wave bye bye! 20:55
Started back riding after having been off it for a while. It was a different type bike than I rode before. More top heavy and I am older. I fell over when stopping 4 or five times till I went back to basics and practised at slow speed and guit freaking out, causing me to over react. I do love to ride, but I had take time to learn my bike, how it will act is essential to know so I can trust it and myself.
Very good video I'm almost 71 and got back into riding about 8 years ago my bike when I stopped riding back when I was 30 was an old pan head chopper when I started riding again I bought a road king it was quite a change. I wouldn't take my wife until I had 6 months under my belt. I watched a ton of u-tube videos an practiced what they teach you can learn a ton from them! Last year we put 15000 miles on and we're very comfortable on our ultra limited but also very aware of the surroundings. My advise is to keep your head on a swivel and never let down your guard!!! Ride safe!!!
Good advice. Although I've had a full driving licence almost 30 years, I'm new to motorcycles. I totally underestimated just how different it is! One year and two thousand miles on: I'm still learning.
Like what you’re saying. Be riding since I was 12 years old. I’m pushing the big 80. Never stopped riding since then except for my educational program provided to me by the USArmy in the late sixties via The Vietnam experience. After that thrill ride. Came home in one piece. Started up riding again, cause it was my best therapist I could buy. The Veterans Administration was worthless for help. Traveled the states working odd jobs and getting my head and soul cleared. Here to say one don’t find a motorcycle parked in front of a therapist office. Got to keep riding, if ya don’t use it you’ll soon lose it. Been riding for about 67 years and I’m not thinking of stopping. I’ve still got my best friend a 1963 Harley that’s an old retired cop bike. It’s got its old ways, but it keeps up with the flow of traffic. Had this bike since I was in high school. Been overhauled several times and it’s just as happy as I’m. This bike gets the eye balls where ever I putt. I’m very careful who I ride with. Never group up. Especially with beginners on the road. In 1985, bought a new soft tail with that early evo engine. Still got that girl and it’s got to run with it also. Don’t care for the twin cam stuff. Those seem to be a problem child. Never would I buy any of the new stuff. Junk is a good word for that engineering and all that electrical crap. Can’t fix it without the magic computer. I’m of course the stuck in the mud old school. Don’t like dealers too much. They’ll make ya poor real quick and won’t remember you later with some exceptions. You’re right don’t drink and ride! A death sentence. Not the drug thing. Ya need the head clear while riding. Keep the two wheel up on the road, look where you’re at all times.
Hi there from the UK. Thanks for this. I've ridden bikes all my life ( and taken advanced training) but in recently years just 70s bikes I've restored. I've now bought a 1250 GS and even though I've never been off 2 wheels I consider myself a returning rider just due to the huge power increase, and am being really careful and practicing lots-and wearing all the gear.
I love a beer but NEVER drink when I'm on the bike...ever.... motorcycling is just too unforgiving and a reduction of concentration and clear decision making can end badly, or VERY badly. Thanks again
Excellent points.
On drinking and bars: there are a lot more non-alcoholic beers out there than there used to be, and they're surprisingly really good. If you want the experience of going out for a couple beers, you can still do that without introducing alcohol to your riding.
Also, on passengers: About a year into riding again I learned to ride with a pillion who was VERY experienced passenger; it meant that I could develop skills with someone who knew how to reduce their impact on my riding. Once I got the hang of it, they then started to intentionally ride 'like an inexperienced passenger' allowing me to learn that, too.
Great advice! A couple of years back I stumbled across the videos made by Mc Rider and I suddenly realized I wasn't the "expert, know it all rider" whom I considered my self to be. I share your view of taking advantage of all the RUclips videos out there that can add to our knowledge. Congratulations on this great video.
New viewer. I appreciate your content. Real, informative, safety focused and straight to the point.
I agree with you as far as what you said about just because you are on two wheels doesn't mean you are gonna have an accident. I don't agree with dropping your bike. I have a Suzuki and a Harley Davidson breakout. Never dropped either bike. Good video. Everyone please be safe
Slow speed drills are critical to safe riding. No way around it.
It’s the best way to improve control at any speed
100% not true. Learning how to slip the clutch in a parking lot does nothing whatsoever to help you at 70 MPH. Doing minimum radius U-turns and weaving through cones uses completely different skills than handling any situation at speed. It makes you more skilled at doing minimum radius U-turns when, and only when, you find yourself in a situation where you have to make a minimum radius U-turn and, for some reason I can't fathom, you can't put your feet down and duck walk the bike. The police... I get it. They can't take the time to duck walk a bike. But you and I and every other rider can. We can simply come to a full stop, turn the wheel hard and walk the bike around. Why do we think that's a sign of a lesser rider? I watched a guy drop his bike 4 times practicing and I asked him why he was doing that. He said "so I don't drop my bike". Are those guys more skilled riders? I'd say "sure, you bet"... But so are those guys doing wheelies, front tire pivots, and drifting while sitting backwards. Are those making fun of us for not developing those skills? They're skills to be sure, elite skills, but there's no reason to have them except to have them.
@@darrylbraun8520 ~ I agree with most of what you said except the absolutely not true part. The skills DO translate. I’m not talking about that silly “rule “ about duck walking either. But learning your bike’s abilities at slow speeds definitely translates to higher speeds.
@@darrylbraun8520if you are duck walking a bike, you aren’t comfortable enough to take advantage of a bikes capabilities at higher speeds either.
Duck walking a bike is also a great way to slip, drop the bike and break your ankle. You don’t know what you don’t know.
@@brianm5637 I could make the exact same argument for not being able to do standing wheelies and front wheel brake pivots. Those are, after all, within the bike's capabilities and the overwhelmingly vast majority of riders are not comfortable with them. Those same uncomfortable riders are also perfectly capable to ride, at speed, loaded up with a passenger and pulling a trailer. I haven't looked it up but I'm going to be so bold as to suggest that the majority of bike accidents have nothing whatsoever to do with slow riding skills. In fact, I'll suggest that the majority of accidents involve other vehicles at, at least, cruising speeds. I've never talked to an accident victim after T-boning a car who said "I don't get it... I practiced u-turns all summer". Slow riding skills make you a better SLOW RIDER, nothing else And slow is not where the accidents are happening. Skid control, emergency braking, brake and avoid... Those are the skills that keep you alive at speed and nobody, NOBODY is suggesting that all riders should be comfortable locking up the back wheel at 80 and laying that bike over, into a full recovery. The first time riders ever learn to skid their bike is when their life is on the line. And we keep pushing parking lot u-turns as the skill that will save your bacon. I stand amazed at people who can do that with confidence, it's truly impressive, But it's not going to save them when they have to manage a two wheel skid approaching a cliff in a decreasing radius curve.
Thank you so much for bringing up the dangers of drinking while riding. I personally would have liked it listed number 1. It drives me crazy when I drive past bars all times of day with lines of bikes out front (as in New Hope PA on the weekends) Also recently I had to ask specifically if my dealer had water since there was a whole variety of just free beer lined up.
There are probably a few reasons why experienced riders don't have as many accidents. One is that they survived through the learning process and not all do. Second I find that operating the bike becomes instinctive thus allowing better awareness of surrounding drivers and the ability to concentrate on what their actions may be. It's not always easy to figure out what cagers will do here in Philly.
The last thing I do before putting it in gear, is tell myself that I am invisible when I get out there, and everyone is trying to run me over. Continuous situational awareness is a must, to survive.
The thought of alcohol and riding my bike seems completely daft.
That said, i have had the occasional beer and riden. But it is only the one. Definitely blurs your performance. Not helpful.
Great video , returning rider , 10 plus yr drought , enrolled in a beginners class , got my learners permit , my first harley dyna switchback, I don't wanna lay her down
Been a truck driver for 23 years. A rider for 35. Ironically, immensely different vehicles with the same principles of operating safely.
As a former 'Rider Coach" of the basic course through the MSF, I couldn't agree more with this, BUT...we were strictly admonished if we even sat on a bike without all the safety gear, Helmet, full fingered gloves, long sleeve something, jacket preferred, and eye protection. I noticed several omissions of these 'rules' in your videos, we were told repeatedly, "perfect' practice makes perfect, so many students had bad habits to overcome, before they could learn new ones. We felt we were making safer riders, and I know all that practicing on my part made me a better rider. Over-confidence is as dangerous as being too timid. Thanks for your posting!!
ATGATT!
This is my first full season on my bike. I went old and small for my first bike (89 Virago 250cc) I am telling you, taking a course is the best thing you can do for yourself. I learned a lot through Learning Curves. One thing I found that I had to correct in the course, and have to be mindful of every ride is target fixation.
I actually like watching these videos. I been riding since I was 10 started on dirt bikes. I’m 67 now . But every video I see i learn something new .
Even once having some experience, if someone has a second person on their bike as a passenger, it is mandatory to tell them to sit still and not make any abrupt movements . I had one gal who was excited to enjoy a ride and while we were moving, she wanted to go faster. She reached over my arm and tried to twist my hand on the throttle. That caught me off guard and could have become a MIS-HAP ....ouch. Some folks you need a 2 X 4 to get their attention. Ride safe.
rather a 2 x 4 than a 4 x 2 ...............
Hope you didnt marry that one
Great advice - been riding for 5 years and I was pleased to hear I do all 7 of these tips without even knowing about it! Took the class, got my license, wear ATGATT, practice with cones, don't drink (easy for me), dropped my bike and picked it up myself because I practiced it, never ride outside my comfort zone, and never ride with more than 5 others (mostly solo). Where I live I avoid dusk and dawn - too many critters. I would add one thing - if you are a regular backpack and are going on trips - learn how to handle the bike. It doesn't have to be an accident but the rider can trip and break a toe, get something in their eye or be pinned under the bike. Learn how to take off the bags to lighten the load, learn how to pick up the bike and god forbid - ride to help or a better cell signal. Be an active passenger. Thanks again.
I rode from when I was 20 until 34.When my son was born I stopped.Started riding again 3 years ago I took the MSF to do refresh
Smart *"DAD"* 👍
Hello from the Republic of Ireland. I made the mistake (kinda) of buying a Honda Blackbird. I'm very short (5' 4" on a good day) and I was on my tippy toes when trying to maneuver at low speeds. Although, performance wise it was amazing...the power delivery and handling. My last bike was 2015 Yamaha MT-09. My dream lottery win bike is a Ducati Diavel V4. Stay safe on the road and your video is great.
I’m looking at getting a new bike and have been trying to figure out how to get my wife to agree…. I just got the answer, Hegshot said avoid your wife! PERFECT someone is getting a new BIKE!!!
I don't know how the EweTube algorithm knew to show me your video/Channel, but I'm happy it did! 😀
I haven't ridden a Steel Steed in decades. I retired my beloved GL1100 in the early 90's (Got tired of so many FOOLS trying to smear me/my wife across the roadways), and I've missed Riding ever since.
100% agree with you about the 'Perishable Skill!' I KNOW my skills have degraded, and I haven't kept up on new laws/regulations/etc.. I'm currently looking to get back into this, will start with a comfortable 500cc or so, and relearn. I'm not so arrogant that I'm afraid to say I need the extra training/practice!
Thank you for your great video and perspectives! (Also, very nice set of 'Tools' ya got in the background!)
Got yerself another Subscriber, and I look forward to catching-up on the videos you've already posted!
:-D
Returning rider here after 20+ years. Great advice.
I just want to add a note about the "duck walking" in the MSF Basic Rides Course. There is only two time that riders are instructed to power walk or duck walk as you called it. The first time is during part of exercise 2. This is the first exercise with the motorcycle moving under its own power. The intent of that part of the exercise is for people to practice using the fiction zone. So the speeds should be too low for most people to balance if they have no previous experience. (Yes there are some instructors that permit rider to have the clutch continuously fully engaged when the motorcycle is in motion. This has the riders going too fast during this part of the exercise. I have seen this happen. The result was the riders had a lot of troubles with the low speed maneuvers later in the class.) The other time is while changing directions during exercise 3. This is done mostly for safety considerations. From exercise 4 on riders are expected to ride, not power walk.
BTW, I often hear comments that the MSF BRC is not very useful because the speeds are under fifteen or twenty mph. The truth is, on a full size range, to pass the test with a good score a rider must go over 20 mph. More like 25 mph. I have seen speeds noticeable higher than that. It should also be noted that in the USA the average speed for a fatal crash is still under 40 mph the last time I checked. The "Hurt Report" that was done in the late 1970's found an average speed of a fatal crash was 32 mph. That is a speed that isn't unusual to see in a MSF BRC.
Preach it. As I return, I am appalled to see the lack of respect for the motorcycle,which is shots, flip flops, and tank tops. I was raised and taught differently
Some sound advice here…. Thanks for taking the time brother!
Excellent video, thank you. My golden rule, that all my buddies know, is I don't touch alcohol when I ride during the day, never! When we stop for the night and go(walk) for a steak, a beer is definitely on the menu but during the day, while riding, Never!
Always wanted to learn how to ride. At 50+, passed the MSF basic course, watched a lot of videos (MC Rider, Motojitsu, Moto Control, DanDan, Boss of Your Motorcycle, and few others). Got full riding gear. Bought my first bike new just over 2yrs and had it delivered. Only knew two other riders at the time. Haven't looked back! Met a few other riders since. Took a second MSF course since. Last big ride was 200miles...enjoyed it! Always working on skills, especially slow. Always ride my ride.!
As a biker it takes a few years to get to achieve the correct skills, awareness, anticipation - I also drive a car which I feel makes me more skilful than the car drivers that have never ridden a motorcycle.
I started riding in 1964 and rode consistently up until 1982. From 1982 until 1989 I rode a small bike to teach my son. Taking an unavoidable break from 1989 to 2016 I decided to get another bike, not too big and not too small, just a Honda Nighthawk CB450SC. I had two accidents involving a traffic light turning green and a car trying to quickly make a left turn from the opposite direction. Those were in 1965 and 1968. I did learn from my mistakes as I had to teach myself how to ride! There was no MC licence or riding courses to be had back then. I now ride a Honda Magna VF750C.I still get an adrenaline rush when I find a clear run that is safe to get up to 140 to 160 kph, My head is always on a swivel watching every intersection, traffic in front, behind and to either side of me. Due to my body getting weaker as I approach 80 next year, I will likely be hanging up my leathers and passing things on to my son. Anytime I have ever needed to clear my mind, a decent ride has done the trick! No regrets here!
I just bought a new (to me) bike after a decade away from riding. I've been watching your pew videos for a while now, and this came up when I was looking for videos about starting over riding. It's nice to see a familiar face and I'm glad you have both channels. Keep up the good work.
Here is a major safety item that you missed. Get rid of that "Batwing Dash" as it is totally blocking your view of the road in front of you. A friend of mine hit a bear cub that suddenly ran out on the road, and he never saw the bear. Toppled his Harley Ultra Glide with injuries to him and several hundred dollars damage to the bike. The bear died when hit. Check out your video at 3:58
Whaaattt?? Yeah it was the batwing dash 2 feet in front of his head that caused the crash.... Yeah I believe that one, like I believe the "I had to lay it down" guys.
Brother man I hear you loud and clear. 40+ years of riding in Southern California. I finally got hit by Cager that broke just about every bone on the left-hand side of my body. This happened three years ago, I’m finally recovered enough to ride again. I had on all the top notch gear riding jacket/riding pants. Full face SHOEI NEOTEC flip up.. Left side of the helmet was completely tore up as I slid across the lanes of traffic. The full face helmet saved my life.!!!… it is only thing that I will put on my head. Full face helmet all the way. Anyways, love the content you be safe out there, and make sure you wear all the gear all the time.
Good video, I learned to ride on a minibike, then it was a 125c dirt bike, then a 250 enduro, then it became the 1976 750- four, wow that was a change. and my bikes just keep getting faster and faster, Well, maybe not the 76 Shovelhead, but. I like riding without a helmet but for the last 20 years or more I have always used one, I never have had a wreck, but I been there when they have happened, someone write that check that their skill can't cash. The best advice I can give to someone is always think that it will go wrong. that car will pull out or change lanes, and just be sure of what you are going to do when it happens. if there is a plan you will just have a new story to tell.
Learn, train, practice, repeat.....Live longer, ride further
Good video 👍. My comment about helmets is not only buy the best you can afford, but buy the style that allows you to see the most. You can spend over a $1,000 on a shoei neotec 3 with optional blue tooth, but if you are a non interstate rider, and want to ride around the city, then being distracted with music and having a heavy modular helmet that limits your peripheral vision is less safe then an open face or half helmet.that allows you to see cars on either side of you.
I still believe strongly that the most important of safety equipment is the sponge between my ears!
These are excellent recommendations. If people follow these simple and straightforward 7 guidelines, they have reduced their chances of accidents and of riding safely exponentially. Great vid. Thanks for putting it out there.
I remember when I just started riding, I was pulling in for fuel and when I got to the pump I put my left leg down only to slip on the diesel/petrol that was on the ground. I really don’t know how I didn’t drop my bike but my friggin groin hurt from a few days later, I almost did the splits whilst on a motorcycle. Now I’m super careful about oil, fuel and coolant that is near the pumps. Cheers mate and thanx heaps for the tips! 👍🇦🇺Ride safe land lovers
As a new rider with only 2,000 miles on a bike I'd say the top issue new riders should be most vigilant about is cornering. Speed and target fixation are two things I find myself thinking about in every corner.
A new rider could easily find themselves running off the road or into the opposite lane if they're not looking far enough ahead on a corner. As soon as I start looking further up the corner almost immediately I correct my balance and cornering line.
Also, trying to judge how fast I can take that corner is still something I find myself learning. I generally take the corners about 10 to 15mph over the suggested mph signs. If the sign recommends 45mph corner then I know I should be fine going 55mph. And again, I'm learning that the further I look out in front helps me take the corner quicker. Improving my cornering takes practice and patience. I make sure I ride within my skill level and only slightly push myself outside that when learning. Hopefully one day I can take these corners like a seasoned rider.
I have 2 bikes and the turning radius between the 2 is huge.
It's not if you get into an accident it's when and how bad
I have a brother with a TBI. He didn't get that injury on a bike, it happened in a car, but it really drives the point home that head injuries are no joke. My brother's passenger walked away, and externally he had minimal trauma if any, but he was semi-conscious immediately after the crash and spent several days in a medically induced coma. Now he can't drive at all, he tried going back to work and wasn't able to do that. His voice and vision are affected and he's had profound personalty changes. So give your head the best protection you can. It's not just about whether or not you live, it's also about how your life can change after an accident.
I gotta tell ya. I've been riding Motorcycles since I was 14 years old. I am now 59, and I'll be 60 in just over two weeks. I have always had a difficult time finding a properly fitted Helmut. The fut of a Helmut is just as important as wearing one, if not more! Just saying, people should, as you stated, not skimp on a Helmut and be sure the darn thing fits correctly! Great videos! Thanks for doing them. I was considering buying a 2024 Street Glide, but after seeing the issues you had, I may wait a year. See if they can get those electronic bugs out...
You are right too many riders become complacent and that's when the trouble starts, ride and guide
Choose a bike that you re capable of handling, not the biggest and heaviest thing on the market. Once you have develop your riding skills then consider going to the dream bike. It is not about power and speed, heavy weight and awkward manhandling make a big difference to a new rider. Once you have the skills weight and size are not as significant an issue.
I quit riding for over 30 years and started again after I retired. I was surprised at how much skill I had lost and how much I had to practice to get back into riding. I've been riding now for 5 years and I'm 72, I'm taking it one step at a time and practicing my figure 8's. I kept my Motorcycle license all these years so I didn't have to retake the test but I'm considering going down and going through the course anyway to see how I do. I watch all these safety video's and like yours and I watch Doodle on a motorcycle once in a while also. She's got a lot of safety video's also.
last point - passengers: i think you need to give passengers some basic tips........ watch the road to avoid banging helmets, or doing the monkey-back on the brakes. sit still as a still thing when riding slowly etc etc.
Heg, I agree with everything you said, and yes a good Modular or Fullface helmet is the only way to ensure proper head protection. A protective pair of gloves, jacket, pants and boots are also very important. Another very important item to have is a decent mini air compressor to ensure your tires are properly inflated before and during a ride to ensure proper handling to prevent accidents !
DON'T adjust your tyre pressures mid ride - unless you had a puncture or other event. tyre pressures should be set when the tyres are cold - like first thing in the morning before you start your ride. read your manual?
In colombia now is mandatory for a license training 28 hours theorical and 16 hours practicing, they also train you with the instructor as a passenger so you can be prepare for it. And I keep practicing over and over the basics. My friends even convince me to have a 150 cc motorcycle before getting something bigger to get the basic skills so I can in the future get the 650 cc cruser I want. They where right. My first accident was with a oil stain on the road left by a truck at 12 miles per hour becuase I had all my gear nothing really happened
Good advice video. Well done. There’s two kinds of riders: Those who have crashed and those who will.” ― Anonymous “The older I get, the faster I was. There are old bikers and there are bold bikers, but there are no old, bold bikers.” ― Evel Knievel
50 Year Rider , Great Advice brother ! All Of It !!
I practice slow speed maneuvers, emergency braking at the beginning of every riding season. Work on skills and take your time.
Best thing you can do!
I do the same
After having ridden for several years, I finally took a rider's class ...
Recommend it
ATGATT, All the gear all the time. No denying that it is an inherently dangerous activity and that is one reason we do it. Helmets have saved my life 3 times on motorcycles and many times on a bicycle. Also I wear an airbag vest always. I know what it feels like crashing and how something minor is a non-event for physical damage to me but would have been serious even fatal without gear. Sleeping with road rash sucks, you stick to the sheets. Watch GP racing and see how those guys wear a full airbag suit (mandatory last 15 years) and usually walk away after crashing at over 150 MPH.
TY for the *"Figures"* (numbers) a lot of the things are things I never thought about or was on the wrong side of the true outcome.
Returning after a 30-year hiatus. I used to have an 85 Kawasaki 454 LTD, now I have an 86 Sportster 883. Waaaay different bike.
In Oregon we now have to take a three day motorcycle training class to get our MC endorsement.
Good video. Practice, practice, practice, I've been riding street bikes since I was 13 and I'm now 48. I still frequently spend time in parking lots honing my slow speed skills and emergency braking. I recently took an advanced riders course and am considering taking another.
Here in Washington state to legally ride a motorcycle you have to complete a New rider class which is two day class and on the second a written test and a physical ride test in order to get the endorsement on ur driver license by law. There are also a couple dealerships that offer a Advance riders class as well.
Thank you
Amazing videos
I just shared the video with my group of about 20 riders
Dude, the run up to your MSF, you showed a clip of a guy not wearing a helmet. The previous safety suggestion.... yup, helmets. I went through an MSF, we wore helmets. But really, great video, thank you!! I have a great rider buddy. He watches out for me, just like you mentioned. And I look out for him. He's a great riding buddy.
i bought a used vstar 650 with 7k miles, and i wish i never did the bike spent more time in the shop than riding it because of electrical issues. based on my experience, you can't trust people , and dealerships sucks
New rider as of September 2023. "avoid bikes without abs" lol. My 01 sporty doesn't have abs and I got into an accident in March when a truck slammed on their brakes in front of me and I walked at my brakes, fishtailed and hit their trailer hitch at 35. Needless to say I learned two things from that experience. First, increase my following distance because I could have easily avoided that if I wasn't as close as I was. And second, ABS sure would have been nice lol
I finally got a motorcycle license after riding for 30 years. It is an issue if you have a commercial license. You have to take every test. Anyhow I had to renew so I enrolled in the motorcycle riding school. Actually, I had a great time and was so happy to see the new riders improve.
This video is for beginners
Helmet license and training
Well yeah
Let’s up the info Alittle
Read the comments many people like this video.
That is what this video was for.. If you can't read, the thumb nail said this video was "common mistakes for new riders" so what exactly is your complaint here?
In our INDIA...
LOTS of motorcycle rider go for cheapest HELMET they possibly get.
First of all they DON'T buy a HELMET to save their head from any Fatal head injuries...
They buy a HELMET to save " fine - money " which they gotta have to pay to a TRAFFIC POLICE for NOT wearing a Helmet .... !!!!!! 👀
As a Rider... I'm pretty serious on choosing a GOOD HELMET.
I bought a mid budget Helmet : LS 2 Which have safety certification of ECE on it..
But it's always better if one could go for more expensive one . ( More money.. MORE SAFETY 😅 ).
I'm fairly experienced, been riding for years, but have all just been leisurely riding, but as of recently, I've been thinking about track days. As I look into this, there's one thing I've been hearing a lot about. "Trail braking." While I've come to accept this is the best (fastest) method for track riding, what about gravel and other obstacles you're likely to encounter in the wild. It seems like hitting loose/wet surfacesIf while turning, and on my front brake, is the stuff of my nightmares. If I remember correctly the literature for the temps test warns against using your front brake in anything but a straight line. I'm not criticizing, just curious of your thoughts. Thanks for the video!
Well said brother! Nice meeting you at Robert Simmons private practice session😊 You did a great job!
One thing I’d add to this: if you’re going to ride, ride frequently, and challenge yourself to gain proficiency. I’m not saying to go faster than you should or to take foolish risks. Just get more adept at dealing with adversity, such as traffic, changing road conditions, adverse weather, etc. And ride often (at least a couple times a week if you can). I still do.
Don’t kid yourself into thinking you’ll be just fine riding every once in a while. Everyone needs to practice, and to do so frequently. Riding isn’t just a perishable skill for those who have ridden before, but haven’t done so for some number of years. It can be perishable much sooner than that.
A few years ago, a buddy of mine, who only rode typically about once every 3-4 months, fell victim to that in a solo accident that was very surprising it even happened. And it wasn’t just one failure. He still could have recovered after his first failure. But his second failure sealed it. All of it was his fault and due to glaring errors in his ability, which in my opinion, was because he didn’t ride nearly enough and didn’t recognize that he needed to. Oh he’s fine, and was extremely lucky to come out of it with relatively minor injuries. But he totaled his bike. He swore off riding after that.
I bought first all my riding gear and then new MT07 to learn on because in my country you can't find one used people love this bike. My dream bike is cruiser bike at the end but i am 35 now and want to learn how to ride properly first then go to Harley or Indian.
Gear, Gear, Gear. Buy it, use it, do not go around the block without it. Gear will save your life. A good friend wrecked at 75 MPH on the freeway. He and the bike ended up in the median. The bike was a big bagger and was totaled. He was launched and only broke a few ribs. He was in full gear on a hot summer day. His helmet was destroyed, and the riding leathers were torn. He had minimal abrasions. Had he not been geared up, he would have died.
I have 50 years experience, I like people try to tell people how ride with minimal experience, good luck,, bro, you don't lay your bike down
Just got back on my bike after a 20 year break after three months riding I did drop it once in the parking lot doing tight turns and figure eights doing way better now but was so embarrassed I did it
Awesome video, very sound and logical advice.
Everybody needs to heed his advice.
Lot good info. Buttttt I do disagree with ABS brakes. I know a lot of Abs malfunction ed and maintenance on them. I trust my experience, the feel of the bike, and yes endoresement training. Brakes, performance machine are the best. ANDDDDDD yes loud pipes saves lives .
Situational awareness, Situational awareness, Situational awareness.
Keep your head on a swivel and prepare for the worst
I would say number one is get your licence and take the motorcycle safety course. I have seen way to many people that do not know how to counter-steer or ride slow speed with using there rear breaks at slow speed to help control the bike etc..
Very informative. Well done i am from Australia it should be done here as well.
In my experience expensive helmets include comfort features like padding and ventilation, they do not necessarily provide more protection than a basic lid that is DOT certified.
#8 - Never ride faster than your angel can fly.
grandfathered in on my mc, and class a. been riding since i was a kid, and 18wheels since i was 18. at 62, there are things i practice as a rider, that i have never seen talked about on youtube. #1 interstate riding, never ride beside an 18 wheeler. those tires are set at 120psi, that tire comes off the rim, it takes you with it. no gear, no time to react, if you survive to ride another day, lucky you. i ride close enough to keep a car from cutting me off, but stay behind that semi until traffic has cleared the front bumper, only then do i pass. i do so quickly, and with purpose. i put a gap between the truck, and myself, the merge right. i see guys hanging out besides trucks, and they have no clue the danger they are in. those tire gators on the road, are examples of a tire coming off the rim.
#2 in town, at stop signs / lights, i sit right or left of the vehicle in front of me, where my best escape path is.
#3 never neutral your bike at a stop sign / light, find a lot to roll into, if you / it has issues.
i dont wear a helmet, rarely have, didnt wear a mask during covid. dont pop off at me about it, and i wont point and laugh at you for it. simple, we're all adults.
huh?
Maybe gesticulating while recording and riding should be avoided.
So I know of one person I don’t know this person personally but this individual had over 2,000,000 miles on two wheels and he never went down and then he was on highway one day and he got rear ended by a truck while he was riding on the highway he wasn’t stopped so yeah of course statistically if you ride along enough eventually you will either go down or crash but if you do everything you can within your power to minimize your risk with road skills road strategy and anything else you can do it can be a very long time before that finally happens And this person had absolutely avoided accidents. I know of one scenario where he was waiting behind a car at a light and he noticed a car was coming up behind him pretty quick. He had to get out of the way and he did and then that vehicle rear ended the car in front of him if he stayed there, he would’ve been crushed so he had avoided numerous accidents throughout that 2,000,000 miles before he got rear ended by that truck, stay safe out there and whatever is in your control to make yourself more likely to not be an accident. You should definitely do that when he finally had this accident. He was wearing all of his safety gear so he did definitely get injured and we’re not entirely sure if he’s gonna make 100% recovery but he’s probably gonna make it 90% recovery but it’s going to take years for him to get as back as he could be, his helmet and jacket got trashed along with his lower protective gear. He wasn’t wearing a helmet. He very likely would’ve been dead. Do not cheap out on the helmet and if you only wear one piece of safety gear, make sure it is the helmet.
Thanks for that story. I see a lot of people talking about the danger of being rear ended. It's not something we tend to think about much
@@DF-ss5ep I made a grammatical error. He was wearing a helmet. It was a full face helmet, and it was high-quality helmet and the helmet also got trashed and the front pair of his face shield got scratched all to hell and the protective part of the face mask that you see through got destroyed, but his face was completely protected by the helmet that helmet 100% saved his life
Great Video... Great Topics.... I do appreciate it. Thanks
Oil leaking on roads are hard too see at night it is like hitting ice and down u go just saiding
Dot helmet i got given is way better than bike helmet ! Rotwaller next door hates my 650 savage- but full helm up side his head.. he not get as close anymore.. luv my full helm ! 2 down - swing 4 the fences.
Great vid. I’m a newer, midlife crisis rider. Started riding in 2019 at 53, never been on a motorcycle before then. Riding a Roadking now, have about 40k miles w/o a serious incident. Took MSF class, paid for itself with insurance credit. 2 things I’ve realized, whatever helmet you get, have it fitted by someone who knows what they are doing. Situational awareness is critical to staying safe. Know what is going on around you and be 30 seconds ahead of where you are.
A year ago today I too the MSF course and will be taking a refresher course in the future. Be safe out there ✌🏻
I got my license in the 80's after I took the MSF course. I stopped riding to raise my boys. Now I'm getting back into it. I looked into the MSF class and found it's $380. WoW, I know prices go up but from $55. Anyway I have found the RUclipsrs are a lot help and the parking lot is my friend. I was riding an 78 fully loaded Goldwing and decided to scale down and get a Sportster. WoW, Going from a couch on wheels to a horse. 😅
The big reason the beginner MSF course is so expensive is equipment; they supply the bikes and those bikes live a hard life. Later courses are much cheaper because you bring your own.
I like the view over your right shoulder.
Gun rack on the handlebars like a four wheeler 👍.