More bikers need to do this. I remember my instructor went over this during my 1st motorcycle course. He was so charming and funny and that I just about remember most of what he covered. I thought this way of parking was super cool so I implement it whenever I’m not going to be in and out of some place.
I always park right in the middle, out of reach of carelessly opened car doors, and close enough to the front to be seen by any car driver who is looking. Parking spaces here in the UK tend to be pretty narrow, so multiple bikes in one space is not usually an option.
USA parking lanes and driving lanes are getting narrow in the USA too. Now, some idiots put poles in the roads. Now the traffic is backed up and worse than it was before. Idiots running the country.
His tips must be good then, because they follow generally accepted best practice. He could also tell us to ride the bike backwards with our naked arse in the air, that would be advice that no-one else talks about.
A great tip, if you use a chain-lock, is to lock your chain to another bikes chain-lock. You can both unlock yours, but it makes stealing one with a van, twice as hard.
Ahhh. But notice how close he is to the red car. It's asking for a door-ding there. AND if red car man comes back and finds just one bike, in an otherwise empty bay, hard up against his car... If red car man just happens to be an a**hole...
Loving your teaching Greg especially as you teach from your own mistakes, it’s makes it so real and easy to trust what you say. Just back on a bike after 10 years so I bought your books and t shirt, of course, and I’m going to go through your belt series over the next few weeks. Really appreciate your experience thanks.
As a habit I also park where you do. However, I do it for a different reason. To keep my tyres away from the engine oils that is often in the middle of both ends of the car spot.
@@MotoJitsu can you make a video for noobs like me about riding in high wind eras or how to deal with realy windy situations it bugs the he'll out of me and some times I think to my self this can't be normal right
As a newer rider I would never have thought to park to the front or that sharing a spot was a thing. Great tips to keep in mind when I’m out in crowded parking lots. Thank you.
Good video, but my two issues is the driver in the red car may look out the passenger window and forget the bike is there. The bike is in a blind spot. They may Turn the wheel left when backing out and hit the bike. My other issue is when it’s straight and on one side of the spot , cars tend not to respect the spot and park all over the lines. In addition then their kids swing the door open cause damage and parents are clueless. I park similar to the way you have it but more on an angle with the rear tire facing the line and the front to the center. Another bike can still slip in but my bike is really my only concern.
Fast Eddie’s Motorcycle Fun That’s true. One night I stayed at a hotel that had a party going on. Every car that parked was all over the line. Even after I moved it to the center. I was peaking out the window like a FBI agent the whole night. I still haven’t found the best solution. I may have to start carrying cones.
Yes, I can't control what others do...if someone whacks my bike...then that happens. I have insurance, or if it's just a car door from a 5 year old...oh well. I'm not going to make private persons arrest over it.
Makes sense...but...If I was the driver of the red car, returning to the car I'd think, wtf? Park close to my car with a full bay to park in? I take a full bay at work. If they won't provide m/c allocated spaces, then why shouldn't you park in one? There's a rack for a hundred push bikes, electric cars, disabled, but nothing for motorbikes.
I don't care about what other people may think...if there's a motorcycle parking spot, and one is open...sure I may park there...but there are very few places around here where there are any...
@@Joez86 same, I parked to the side and someone reversed into the park. Middle and as far forward as you can get away with. Drivers just do not look for anything other than cars in parking spaces. It's like selective vision or something.
Where I live there's never 'no parking spaces' so no issues with using a whole parking spot if there's not motorcycle parking. Whether I back it in or back it out depends on the slope of the lot (if it's flat I back it out generally). I've got a pretty big bike but I can flat foot so don't generally get off the bike to maneuver it (there are some exceptions). I also tend to park at an angle such that with the bike on it's side stand and the steering locked there's no way to push the bike out of the parking spot (assuming cars on both sides). I also position the bike so that doors on both sides won't hit anything they can ding if they're idiots.
Just keep bike as far forward in the space as possible...I got backed into at work trying to leave space for the dude that backed into me that rides a moped some days! I ride everyday and park in same space...then he backed his car into my bike...he arrives after and leaves before...there is plenty of parking so not sure why wants to share but the day before another coworker told me he couldnt get any closer if he wanted to (I parked in center of space...big bike) so the next day gave more room...wish I would have thought about not being seen.
Agree with your ideas and some of the comments, but I prefer to park in the center front. Some jackass will try & squeeze his car in there because you politely invited him to.....generally I prefer to park where cars can't .....& I'm riding a Hayabusa and a TMAX in Taiwan.....
A hyabusa in Taiwan? I bet you never leave that bike parked unattended. Taiwanese have never seen a bike larger than a 125 cc. When I went there and talked to a guy about renting a 250 cc he told me not to leave it unattended because it would be surrounded by people in awe and maybe a few bike thieves.
Last wednesday i graduated for my driving vehicle control exam which mostly concerns driving at low speeds (1 of 3 exams here in order to get your liscence) you really helpend alot with your U turn video, so i just wanted to say thanks. Your video's make perfect sense and inspire me to become a well skilled motor driver too. Keep it up.
I don't want other bikes next to me, had an asshole scratch my fairing after he tried to squeeze his bike in a bay next to mine. I park right in the center now so nobody can park near me
@@oliverfaustino6696 The "how" is the mechanics. He also talked about different areas to park within the spot. You can do the same mechanics and just back it up to the center of the spot to avoid swinging doors.
What about if the grade is steeper? I always try to move forward uphill and backward downhill. It is much easier to ease backward with gravity. This also makes the bike less likely to roll backwards off the stand. I do like your ideas of leaving room for other bikes and not parking too deep in the spot to help with visibility and ease of exit. Keep up the great videos Eddie! Thank you.
Good points brought up here, thank you. I would add that I ride at night in all weather, except freezing. One reason for parking at the front is so that reflectors on my bike are viewable by incoming traffic. I even placed more reflectors on my bike than came with the bike for parking reasons. I park often near the bicycle parking. So far, no complaints from stores. I always park in the middle of the slot because where you parked can easily be blocked from view of incoming traffic by a high truck when traffic comes in from the truck side.
I never park my bikes in regular car parking slots. I find some corner or piece of secluded pavement that cars can't get to once I am not causing any obstruction. Bikes are invisible to van or large SUV / pick up drivers. When I was in the police I dealt with many cases of bikes being knocked off their stands by careless drivers and causing considerable damage to the bike - very often driving off without even leaving a note.
You've got some really informative vids man, thanks! Maybe get a mic though, sometimes hard to hear when you're outside. Totally depends on where you live, but this is great advice. I live in Korea and people will either try to wiggle into the space you've made, or (in worst cases) they will physically try to move you bike out if they see you in a car spot. Bikes have a bit of a bad reputation here (mostly because delivery scooters drive like madmen...and we're all delivery guys, right?). One bonus, everyone puts their phone numbers in their cars dash, so if they block you in, which happens often, you can phone em up and get em to move! Would'a saved you if even one of those Harley's had a magnet with their number attached to their bike. Keep up the good work!
I can see one problem with this: if yours is the only bike the car driver nearest to you, can easily think you parked so close to his just to piss him off, especially if his family is using the back door! You might have a reasonable explanation but the car driver doesn't know it.
Claptrap Claptrap Yeah every situation dictates...this is what I sometimes do...all depends. As long as I’m within my spot, I’m perfectly fine to park there.
It's good that your videos cause discussions on topics even if some riders don't completely agree with everything you say because of unique experiences they've had or maybe conditions are different where they are. You give good advice because it comes from your heart sincerely.
2 in the same parking spot sounds good, side by side. I don’t see how one In the back Would make sure it can get out anytime, before It’s blocked. But personally i Would park in the middle All the way to the front as you suggested. Thanks Greg. Always helpful.
Actually there's a motorcycle lesson in that black eye. If your sparring partner does not telegraph his kicks and he's able to bring his kick in where the blind spot in your eye is, he can score a point. It's good to remember when you're approaching an intersection, especially if you're doing it faster than you should. Everybody's eye has a blind spot because of the optic nerve position on the back of the eye. The driver of a car or truck can be looking right at you and not see you. Especially if you are moving too fast. Especially if the last time he looked you were pretty far away and very small. Always give the driver of a car or truck time to see you at your largest size. And remember that you too also have a blind-spot, not just in one eye but in both eyes.
Good video. I had a bike shunted by a car years ago when parked in the back of the parking spot, and since always park at the front to be easily seen. As for riding straight in, or reversing into any parking spot, i always try to have the rear of my bike facing downhill. pushing a bike either into or out of a parking spot uphill is not easy.
I try to avoid parking where I think I'm going to get hit, but if I have to park closer than I'd like, I make sure to get a license plate number just in case I come back and the bike's tipped over and the car is gone, at least I've got something to give to the insurance company.
When with friends yes i share the spot,problem i have is ppl in cars suck and they see a bike so they park worse and over the lines and spots are small these days so i do middle.i tend to park foward in a lot of spots because the go up hill so it is easier to roll back but flat spots ( except Walmart) i will back in as you show.thanks for doing these videos many have something i am doing wrong.
I agree on the backing in and placing it forward but I would never put my bike that close to the red car. People with shopping carts and multiple kids that have to be put in child seats are going to push their carts up against you. Better to leave one or two bike spots behind you and angle your bike slightly across the front. That makes the bike more visible and prevents someone encroaching too closely on the other side. Just my opinion.
If you're ever going to park on a sidewalk, there's something more dangerous than a curb (or a cop) to deal with - it's a *wheelchair ramp* (which you're always going to be near because that's how you get onto the sidewalk in the first place). Go ahead and say it served me right for parking on a sidewalk (outside an auto parts store), but I had no other choice that day and I only needed to hand the counter person a small bottle of old brake fluid for disposal. What happened, then? As I backpedaled my bike to position it as close to the wall as possible, my left foot suddenly had no purchase because the pavement dipped down as I passed the ramp. It took me completely by surprise - it felt like falling through an open manhole while window shopping. My leg was fully extended, so I couldn't muscle my bike back up with that leg. Down I went with so much weight on the bike (I'd just done my bi-monthly shopping at Walmart) that I had to run into the auto parts store and get 2 employees to help me get the bike back up so I didn't have to spend 20 minutes in the hot Florida sun unloading all the cargo, lifting the bike up by myself, then strapping everything back on again. *OUCH!* So if you're ever maneuvering your bike near a wheelchair ramp, exercise due paranoia.
I always back into a parking space. With my two side cases I am a wide load, so moving to the far left or right of the space is not always prudent. I worry about cars opening and banging their doors on my bike if parked too close to the line. I never thought about another bike parking next to me since I am in and out quickly when out and about. Great video though!
If there aren't any motorcycle only bays, I will first look for bicycle parking racks as this gives added benefit of something solid to lock to. 2nd choice is does the car park have lamp posts or CCTV cams on poles? If so get up close to one of these, park and lock up.
With all things being equal this makes perfect sense. However, in the UK you’d do this and find a Smart car squeezed in next to you or the car parked to the left would open their doors on you! Great video, well explained as ever.
Thank you!!! I really never thought about parking... I had a great time watching you ride today on Camp Pendleton and learned a great deal. Hopefully, you will be there next week as well. I never seen anyone handle a bike like you did. I want a white belt to start, see ya next week with my heavy road glide... Thanks
You really surprised me🙂. I've been riding for several decades and most of what you mentioned were new to me and are good ideas. Good video! Thanks. I am so annoyed by the people that blocked you in.
Yo Eddie, can you do a video on Motorcycle Insurance? What's the best situation to save as far as what you should have, also what do you think of seasonal insurance, riding without insurance, etc.
No need for a video...that's another personal preference thing. I have absolute full coverage...even if I let someone borrow my bike and they get into an accident, it would as if I was riding it, they're fully covered too.
Reasoning for not riding forward into a spot is essentially to avoid walking the bike out yet you had to do the exact same thing in the first place to park, so with this method either way you are holding up the traffic at some point so does it matter? Downside of riding a bike that is big, heavy or too tall for you. It's why I can't stress enough the importance of learning on a bike that fits you rather then starting on something you can't really handle.
Happened to me the same, now I am parking in the middle. at least the lady that hit my bike left a note with her contact info and explaining what happened, she covered the repair cost
Yeahhh that's true about the car... But people are used to seeing a car that close to their own. I understand your point of parking like that but it just gives the impression of a jerk. Like when a car takes 2 spots deliberately. Your trusting the passenger of that car not to ding or worse knock over your bike. I've had it happen to my bike, of course with no note attached. I park center front right in line with other bumpers.
Yeah I can imagine somebody coming back to their car 🚗 not normally used to seeing a motorcycle parked so close to them like you did and be like wtf? Getting all upset when they don’t realize you were trying to leave room for others in that space. They will just hate you for being parked so close when you had all that room to scoot over. They won’t think about other bikers they will only think about their car. Not a good thing for the protection of your bike.
I had a lot of opinions on how I park, looks like I am good if I followed most of the video. Been riding 23 years and have found each spot a little different. I enjoy taking up the entire space most of the time as I park right in the middle of the spot but closer to the entry point 90 percent of the time. I am just confused as I am 6 feet tall and all bike I have ridden, I can always flat foot when I am on the bike. But turning off the motor and dismounting the bike, I have so many issues with. But we all have our style I guess. Keep the videos coming.
Man, you are cranking out some awesome videos with real world info! This is the kind of stuff that isn't in the motorcycle class. I just put a deposit down on a 2018 sv650 (black with red frame/wheels) I'm pumped to get riding and your content has opened my mind.
Never thought of this, over here we have those motorcycle specific lots in every car park. Really good to know in case I have to do this in another country.
I understand your point about trying to leave room for another bike to park, but my LT has fairly wide side cases that I don’t want dinged up by car doors. So, I center my bike in the spot, but err towards the front as you suggest for the reason you state. However, I don’t typically go to the very front of the spot, but try to align with the cars already parked. That allows good visibility to others searching for a spot, yet keeps my front wheel from sticking well into the lane where someone might hit it. I can still push my bike backwards pretty well while seated on it and that is how I back in. I don’t like trying to walk a 900+ lb motorcycle backwards while standing beside it. If there is any upslope, I just engage reverse and back it in that way. 😁
Great advice. I was waiting to hear why you used your center stand. I would use mine as well, less space, but it could fall onto a car if the asphalt is hot enough. That happened to me with my first BMW LT, thankfully it was my BMW X3 it was resting on. Anyway great advice as always, until now I parked in the center of the space (in case my bike fell).
My bike (87 Honda VT1100) doesn't have a center stand, so I cut a small plate of 5/16" aluminum, just small enough to fit in the back pocket on a pair of jeans, to place under the foot of the side stand. This works well on hot asphalt, or softer unpaved surfaces such as grass or dirt, by spreading the load over an area 5 or 6 times wider than the stand foot does.
Not sure about 4 bikes in a single spot. Bunch of reasons. First, the bikes in back can get blocked in. Second... if the bikes up front leave the bikes in the back are not blocked but now they are near the back... and the reason you parked in front was to be seen by cars pulling in. 2 bikes per spot.
as a newer short rider on a taller bike myself. Definitely put down the kickstand first before you dismount. I ended up eating shit trying to balance and swing my leg off. I'm gonna partly blame it on being frozen stiff from an unexpected downpour soaking me, but yeah... I always make sure that kickstand is down before I dismount now.
Some interesting ideas, thanks. I’d be a bit mindful of parking so close to those car doors though. The only time I wouldn’t do something similar would be if it was on a hill! I’d definitely be rolling downhill backwards out of a space when leaving rather than pushing it backwards uphill when I arrive!
Just passed my tests and got my A2 licence in the UK. I'm just wondering, what's your experience with carparks? I work at a supermarket and I'm slightly worried about parking my bike in a car bay for 9 hours a day. Do you think its better to park close to a store, where it's busier but less chance of people fucking with your bike? Or park further up the end of the carpark to avoid other cars, but potentially have twats mess with your stuff.
Congrats! Mmm if it's just sitting there for 9 hours, I wouldn't even ride it lol If anything park it in the back of the store, that's what I would do.
Fast Eddie’s Motorcycle Fun thanks for the fast reply. I reckon the easier commute probably isn't worth the risk of my bike being damaged. I've already had multiple elderly women slam their car doors into the side of my car. Don't want the same fate happening to my bike haha. Like you said, 9 hours is probably pushing my luck. Anyways stay safe mate, looking forward to more videos.
i just got a bike, i park even with the lines (demonstrated) the other end of the spot (front of parking spot?) tends to have oil spots in the middle or so. so parking like this not only helps with cars seeing that a spot is not available, but also avoiding oil getting on ur boots and whatever else
A few things your backing in when you park is personal taste: nothing changes if you do it first or back out at the end, if you pull in directly you are not allowing car driver to nip in/pulling forward means the car behind will pull in to your parking space while you are walking your bike back.. Parking to either side will allow a car driver to pull in next to your bike risking a hit.. best place is forward middle best line of sight and protecting yourself from learners and car drivers.. we each understand car drivers are not the most umm.. thoughtful? Giving them enough space that they think there vehicles will fit means they will try to fit it’s the same logic that you suggested for pulling forward..
I agree with parking where you did, however its not as easy to back the bike in, off the bike, with a heavy weight cruiser; I waddle mine back. As a rider, It does annoy me when motorcycles park in the center or far in the back (it's how you get your bike hit).
I do a mix of things depending on the situation. If there's a slope in the spot, I always park facing uphill (I've gotten stuck facing downhill), if it's to the side, I put my stand on the high side as it's a bit of a short stand. I do prefer to drive out if possible. Normally I stay near the front and middle in public spaces (if you leave space someone will try to squeeze in, and people just are not careful with their cars). At work we tended to share 1 space to 2 bikes as the parking was limited and adjusted for that, one in front off center, the other behind offset.
I usually park at the front of stores. It is common in my area so it's never been an issue. If I have to take a real parking spot I stay in the middle backed in with my front wheel right up to the fire lane or right where it would be.
Only issue with parking all the way up front and on the side, in my experience, is bad/inexperienced drivers who don't know that turning out brings the nose of their car out. I've had my bike knocked over by one of those people. Was all on camera; the hood of their car swept out right into my bike as they were leaving. It's when they leave in a certain direction, but I consider that a 50-50 chance. Oh and also people's doors opening and slamming into your bike, because car people love opening their doors without looking. I've tried parking all different ways and observing how people react to it; straight on the side; straight in the middle and middle (not fully pulled up); 45 degree angle in the middle; 45 degree angle on the sides, 45 degree angle pulled in. They all have their own flaws. I've seen people open their car doors and accidentally slam it into bikes next to mine from being parked on the side. I've seen cars try to park in my space with my bike, and realize they don't fit... at all. I've seen people park inches away because...they can? I never found a perfect solution because people are random. But parking the bike at a 45 degree angle and inward more has prevented a lot of drivers from sideswiping with their nose as they pull out. They still manage to get really dang close to hitting it though! Sometimes giving them too much space makes them park closer; sometimes it doesn't matter. I've also had cars back into my bike from the parking space "across the street" (however you say that). Parking in fully could help prevent that, but invite others to attempt to park in thinking it's an open space, like you mentioned. The best overall solution I've come up with was to park mostly or fully in, straight and in the middle (or 45 degree angle if you can predict which way their nose turns out), and use a safety/traffic cone near the outside line. People see the cone, even if they don't see the bike yet. If the cone gets hit, no problem. If you're worried about the cone being moved or stolen (it happens), you can attach it to your bike via a long chain and lock. It can stop other bikers (or as many) from parking with you though, depending how you position everything. But it's good for those who stay in apartment complexes, hotels, or similar things that share parking lots. Even for at work if you must park your bike in the parking lot...could just leave the cone at work and take the extra trip in and back out to cone it up. ..Is the cone a perfect solution? Maybe not, but what is? I can say though that it's made incidents go down a ton, I'm not as worried, and people are forced/led to take wider turns into and out of their spaces next to mine.
Yes there's many variables when parking, it would take me hours to explain every possibility, this video and all my videos, are just general outlines to certain topics.
You said dont allow yourself to be blocked in. You also said someone could park behind you. If 3 more bikes park in that spot, the ones in the back are blocked in and can't leave until 1 of the front bikes move. Your theory is a good one but I don't want to be blocked in. I would park beside you but not in the back unless the other bikes are with me..
For medical reasons I have a trike, a much wider bike (an inch shy of five feet wide in the rear - not kidding). I back in along the center of a parking space and actually center the bike from front to back as well to lessen the odds of being whacked. To solve the oh yeah the space looks empty.. wham into my bike, at home depot i found bright orange foot high traffic cones cheap. I got two and put them in front of my bike at the forward end of the parking space. They serve double duty in my driveway... the black bike cover kinda visually disappears into the black asphalt (especially at night) and i had visions of a visitor pulling in and "oh no I didn't see the bike." The cones are light weight, slip into each other, are flexible, and are easily stored in my storage "trunk" for touring. As a handicapped person who travels, when i cannot find a handicapped space, they also help "save" a space near my hotel room so I don't have to walk so far with a heavy oxygen tank or be in respiratory distress long before i can reach my room.
Thanks for the senseful Video. Please, don't get me wrong, but in Germany bikers are not allowed to fulfill with two or even four a parking area for one car. But your thoughts for the better direction with a bike are useful.
They would have been moved one way or another. If you're a dick head and blocked me in with no way to get out... I have no sympathy when it comes to your bike.. If it gets damaged when I try to move it, so be it.. Quick kick to the handlebars will break the handlebars and roll it on out.
It really makes sense to me Greg...A lot! 😉 Because you're teaching is not more than just techniques in motor cycling, But you also teaching us all about good manners on how to be a respectful biker to other motorists and co-bikers. 👏👏👏Go job bro! 👍👍👍Your so cool! Keep it up.. 😉
Great video and after a two or three attempts to follow your tips, I totally trust your advice. I am a beginner and I have a lot to learn, technically. But how do you do a proper washing of your bike after a long, dirty trip? Thx a lot for your work. Peace!
MotoJitsu Is this the item? Blue bottle? Tried to provide photo but can’t :( Also, you can spray this all over your bike? Meaning chains and all and it won’t do any damage?
Fairly new rider, thank you for taking the time to make these great videos! Really educational and very helpful! Subscription for sure ! Thanks again bro!
Eddie, my bike is a HD road glide, with passenger its about 1000 lbs, I find for me it’s easier to back in, and in some cases ask the wife to get off, in order to back in easier. We just got back Sturgis, and put 1300 miles on the bike.
Thanks Tom! If I don't have any buddies coming or if this place isn't popular for motorcycles, then I'll park the same way, just in the middle. All depends:)
Or come back and see another bike parked next to you. You're happy you were able to share your spot with a fellow rider until you see your mirrors have been moved and has a small scratch on it.. Great tips though. Just be careful when you "invite" others to come near your bike.
Pretty sure this is it! www.amazon.com/MotoRadds-Motorcycle-Helmet-Mount-GoPro/dp/B074W2J774/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1533860063&sr=8-1&keywords=chin+mount+gopro
Good stuff, like your videos. I live in Bangkok - Thailand and parking a bike in a car park is actually not allowed. In Thailand they're not used to big bikes yet, it's only since the last 10 years big bikes starting to get more popular. Motorbikes everywhere, but all 125cc smaller bikes. A bike is a bike here, that's how they think. For that reason bikes are not allowed on tollways and certain highways which sometimes is confusing, certainly with the overcrowded highways around Bangkok, where the majority of cagers are constantly on their phones and don't look in their mirrors. They just go, what's next or behind you is not important, certainly when it has 2 wheels.
It does indeed. Finding a empty parking lot like the one in your videos is impossible here in Bangkok (with around 14 million inhabitants). You've got some more space there.
Well, once you're getting out of the city the roads are getting quiet with beautiful nature. And it's always warm here. Tomorrow (Sunday the 5th) early start at 5 am with a couple of biker mates for a track day, 75 km outside the city in rural Thailand.
If you find yourself parking in a lot with no parking lines, as some convenience stores have, avoid parking pointing down hill. I made that mistake at a rural convenience store while on my Electra Glide (heavy). There were no other vehicles parked on the lot, so I parked well away from the door, positioned out of the way of other vehicles that might come through. A couple of guys pulled up in a pickup, parked right in front of me, got a drink in the store and stood in the doorway watching, waiting and laughing as I worked my butt off getting out of there. Yes, I did loiter around for a bit, but they seemed to be waiting for the show. They finally got one and I learned a good lesson.
thanks for watching! :) MotoJitsu.com
More bikers need to do this. I remember my instructor went over this during my 1st motorcycle course. He was so charming and funny and that I just about remember most of what he covered. I thought this way of parking was super cool so I implement it whenever I’m not going to be in and out of some place.
Hello...
My question is:
When parking do I leave it in 1st gear than turn off bike or do I turn bike off than put it in 1st?
Thanks
I like it, parking❤
I always park right in the middle, out of reach of carelessly opened car doors, and close enough to the front to be seen by any car driver who is looking. Parking spaces here in the UK tend to be pretty narrow, so multiple bikes in one space is not usually an option.
Probably 2 bikes is OK and 3 if it is the same group of bikers, but 4 doesn't fit in here either.
USA parking lanes and driving lanes are getting narrow in the USA too. Now, some idiots put poles in the roads. Now the traffic is backed up and worse than it was before. Idiots running the country.
I try to park away from other cars even if it means walking a little farther to the store.
You always give out tips and tricks that are rarely talked about elsewhere
😁
Which is why I keep coming back for more! Thanks & keep it up @motojitsu
His tips must be good then, because they follow generally accepted best practice.
He could also tell us to ride the bike backwards with our naked arse in the air, that would be advice that no-one else talks about.
A great tip, if you use a chain-lock, is to lock your chain to another bikes chain-lock. You can both unlock yours, but it makes stealing one with a van, twice as hard.
As a new rider, this really helped because I had no idea the significance of park sharing with other riders. Thanks 🙌🏼
Ahhh. But notice how close he is to the red car. It's asking for a door-ding there. AND if red car man comes back and finds just one bike, in an otherwise empty bay, hard up against his car...
If red car man just happens to be an a**hole...
Loving your teaching Greg especially as you teach from your own mistakes, it’s makes it so real and easy to trust what you say. Just back on a bike after 10 years so I bought your books and t shirt, of course, and I’m going to go through your belt series over the next few weeks. Really appreciate your experience thanks.
Thanks! Let me know how the belt drills work out :)
As a habit I also park where you do. However, I do it for a different reason. To keep my tyres away from the engine oils that is often in the middle of both ends of the car spot.
True that!
g ride is it 1950? Cars don't dump oil like they used to. Even Harley's don't leak but some are clearly still ridden by nobheads
g ride, yep stay out of the schmoo
I was a nuckle head for years and parked my bike far back in the parking spot, it took years for me to do it right. Good lesson learned for me..
@@MotoJitsu can you make a video for noobs like me about riding in high wind eras or how to deal with realy windy situations it bugs the he'll out of me and some times I think to my self this can't be normal right
As a newer rider I would never have thought to park to the front or that sharing a spot was a thing. Great tips to keep in mind when I’m out in crowded parking lots. Thank you.
Good video, but my two issues is the driver in the red car may look out the passenger window and forget the bike is there. The bike is in a blind spot. They may Turn the wheel left when backing out and hit the bike.
My other issue is when it’s straight and on one side of the spot , cars tend not to respect the spot and park all over the lines. In addition then their kids swing the door open cause damage and parents are clueless.
I park similar to the way you have it but more on an angle with the rear tire facing the line and the front to the center. Another bike can still slip in but my bike is really my only concern.
The red car backing up won't hit my bike, it can't make that angle. And this is what I do sometimes...sometimes I park dead center...all depends.
Fast Eddie’s Motorcycle Fun That’s true. One night I stayed at a hotel that had a party going on. Every car that parked was all over the line. Even after I moved it to the center. I was peaking out the window like a FBI agent the whole night.
I still haven’t found the best solution. I may have to start carrying cones.
Yes, I can't control what others do...if someone whacks my bike...then that happens. I have insurance, or if it's just a car door from a 5 year old...oh well. I'm not going to make private persons arrest over it.
@@MotoJitsu the red car can absolutely hit your bike. If they back up and turn the wheel to the left too soon, they will hit your bike.
Makes sense...but...If I was the driver of the red car, returning to the car I'd think, wtf? Park close to my car with a full bay to park in? I take a full bay at work. If they won't provide m/c allocated spaces, then why shouldn't you park in one? There's a rack for a hundred push bikes, electric cars, disabled, but nothing for motorbikes.
I don't care about what other people may think...if there's a motorcycle parking spot, and one is open...sure I may park there...but there are very few places around here where there are any...
My way, right in the middle, period.
Sweet!
Got too, unless you want the angry/mindless car owner to fling their door into your bike.
Al yes! No need to poke the bear in the cage
MARKINAU8 agree completely
@@Joez86 same, I parked to the side and someone reversed into the park. Middle and as far forward as you can get away with. Drivers just do not look for anything other than cars in parking spaces. It's like selective vision or something.
Where I live there's never 'no parking spaces' so no issues with using a whole parking spot if there's not motorcycle parking. Whether I back it in or back it out depends on the slope of the lot (if it's flat I back it out generally). I've got a pretty big bike but I can flat foot so don't generally get off the bike to maneuver it (there are some exceptions). I also tend to park at an angle such that with the bike on it's side stand and the steering locked there's no way to push the bike out of the parking spot (assuming cars on both sides). I also position the bike so that doors on both sides won't hit anything they can ding if they're idiots.
Good tips!
Just keep bike as far forward in the space as possible...I got backed into at work trying to leave space for the dude that backed into me that rides a moped some days! I ride everyday and park in same space...then he backed his car into my bike...he arrives after and leaves before...there is plenty of parking so not sure why wants to share but the day before another coworker told me he couldnt get any closer if he wanted to (I parked in center of space...big bike) so the next day gave more room...wish I would have thought about not being seen.
Agree with your ideas and some of the comments, but I prefer to park in the center front. Some jackass will try & squeeze his car in there because you politely invited him to.....generally I prefer to park where cars can't .....& I'm riding a Hayabusa and a TMAX in Taiwan.....
Sometimes I park on the side...sometimes like I did in the video, it would take me 3 hours of talking to go over every single situation.
A hyabusa in Taiwan? I bet you never leave that bike parked unattended. Taiwanese have never seen a bike larger than a 125 cc. When I went there and talked to a guy about renting a 250 cc he told me not to leave it unattended because it would be surrounded by people in awe and maybe a few bike thieves.
CyberEditing yup we all have various backgrounds.
Or some idiot opens their car door into the bike
How is the Tmax? Is it worth the 10K?
Last wednesday i graduated for my driving vehicle control exam which mostly concerns driving at low speeds (1 of 3 exams here in order to get your liscence) you really helpend alot with your U turn video, so i just wanted to say thanks. Your video's make perfect sense and inspire me to become a well skilled motor driver too. Keep it up.
Awesome!! Thank you!
I don't want other bikes next to me, had an asshole scratch my fairing after he tried to squeeze his bike in a bay next to mine. I park right in the center now so nobody can park near me
I do that most of the time too.
I am not parking my bike at the side of the stall to have some kid open their car door onto my bike, sorry not happening.
James Weber Ok..my videos are what I do SOMETIMES, not what YOU should do. It’s your life, do as you wish.
The title of your video says otherwise. But I can see the wisdom for parking the way that you do. Thanks for the tip!
@@oliverfaustino6696 The "how" is the mechanics. He also talked about different areas to park within the spot. You can do the same mechanics and just back it up to the center of the spot to avoid swinging doors.
James, dude, chillax, it's a RUclips video. You don't actually have to do what he says. I'm amazed you didn't know that.
What about if the grade is steeper? I always try to move forward uphill and backward downhill. It is much easier to ease backward with gravity. This also makes the bike less likely to roll backwards off the stand. I do like your ideas of leaving room for other bikes and not parking too deep in the spot to help with visibility and ease of exit. Keep up the great videos Eddie! Thank you.
I wouldn't park if it was too steep, I would just park somewhere else and walk lol Thanks for your support, share with others!
Good points brought up here, thank you. I would add that I ride at night in all weather, except freezing. One reason for parking at the front is so that reflectors on my bike are viewable by incoming traffic. I even placed more reflectors on my bike than came with the bike for parking reasons. I park often near the bicycle parking. So far, no complaints from stores. I always park in the middle of the slot because where you parked can easily be blocked from view of incoming traffic by a high truck when traffic comes in from the truck side.
I never park my bikes in regular car parking slots. I find some corner or piece of secluded pavement that cars can't get to once I am not causing any obstruction. Bikes are invisible to van or large SUV / pick up drivers. When I was in the police I dealt with many cases of bikes being knocked off their stands by careless drivers and causing considerable damage to the bike - very often driving off without even leaving a note.
You've got some really informative vids man, thanks! Maybe get a mic though, sometimes hard to hear when you're outside.
Totally depends on where you live, but this is great advice. I live in Korea and people will either try to wiggle into the space you've made, or (in worst cases) they will physically try to move you bike out if they see you in a car spot. Bikes have a bit of a bad reputation here (mostly because delivery scooters drive like madmen...and we're all delivery guys, right?). One bonus, everyone puts their phone numbers in their cars dash, so if they block you in, which happens often, you can phone em up and get em to move! Would'a saved you if even one of those Harley's had a magnet with their number attached to their bike.
Keep up the good work!
Thank you so much!
So many overlooked scenarios with such practical solutions. Great channel
Thanks! Please share with others!
I can see one problem with this: if yours is the only bike the car driver nearest to you, can easily think you parked so close to his just to piss him off, especially if his family is using the back door! You might have a reasonable explanation but the car driver doesn't know it.
Claptrap Claptrap Yeah every situation dictates...this is what I sometimes do...all depends. As long as I’m within my spot, I’m perfectly fine to park there.
Claptrap Claptrap he’s no closer than the side of a car that would be parked there
It's good that your videos cause discussions on topics even if some riders don't completely agree with everything you say because of unique experiences they've had or maybe conditions are different where they are. You give good advice because it comes from your heart sincerely.
Sure does...I really want to go on a US tour and ride and make videos and meet up with people :)
2 in the same parking spot sounds good, side by side. I don’t see how one In the back Would make sure it can get out anytime, before It’s blocked. But personally i Would park in the middle All the way to the front as you suggested. Thanks Greg. Always helpful.
Thanks for watching ❤️ MotoJitsu.com for my App, Books, Merch, Discounts, etc. 👍🏼
Anything I'm curious of "the right way" you got a video for it. You're a blessing to all of us on 2 wheels MJ!
looks like fast Eddie was not fast enough .lol sorry I could not help myself
You're the 3rd person to say that! lol
I speak from experience that's all
He is fast enough to explain many hours of experience and practice in few minutes. Thats great.
Actually there's a motorcycle lesson in that black eye.
If your sparring partner does not telegraph his kicks and he's able to bring his kick in where the blind spot in your eye is, he can score a point.
It's good to remember when you're approaching an intersection, especially if you're doing it faster than you should. Everybody's eye has a blind spot because of the optic nerve position on the back of the eye. The driver of a car or truck can be looking right at you and not see you. Especially if you are moving too fast. Especially if the last time he looked you were pretty far away and very small. Always give the driver of a car or truck time to see you at your largest size. And remember that you too also have a blind-spot, not just in one eye but in both eyes.
Give him credit for the hundreds of kicks and punches he has undoubtedly avoided. Could have been a lapse in concentration, not necessarily speed.
Good video.
I had a bike shunted by a car years ago when parked in the back of the parking spot, and since always park at the front to be easily seen. As for riding straight in, or reversing into any parking spot, i always try to have the rear of my bike facing downhill. pushing a bike either into or out of a parking spot uphill is not easy.
john tractor thanks! There’s many many variables:)
No only that, but bikes can easily fall over when parked facing downhill.
I try to avoid parking where I think I'm going to get hit, but if I have to park closer than I'd like, I make sure to get a license plate number just in case I come back and the bike's tipped over and the car is gone, at least I've got something to give to the insurance company.
When with friends yes i share the spot,problem i have is ppl in cars suck and they see a bike so they park worse and over the lines and spots are small these days so i do middle.i tend to park foward in a lot of spots because the go up hill so it is easier to roll back but flat spots ( except Walmart) i will back in as you show.thanks for doing these videos many have something i am doing wrong.
If other bikes aren't coming or it isn't a high bike area, I'll park in the middle.
I agree on the backing in and placing it forward but I would never put my bike that close to the red car. People with shopping carts and multiple kids that have to be put in child seats are going to push their carts up against you. Better to leave one or two bike spots behind you and angle your bike slightly across the front. That makes the bike more visible and prevents someone encroaching too closely on the other side.
Just my opinion.
If you're ever going to park on a sidewalk, there's something more dangerous than a curb (or a cop) to deal with - it's a *wheelchair ramp* (which you're always going to be near because that's how you get onto the sidewalk in the first place). Go ahead and say it served me right for parking on a sidewalk (outside an auto parts store), but I had no other choice that day and I only needed to hand the counter person a small bottle of old brake fluid for disposal.
What happened, then? As I backpedaled my bike to position it as close to the wall as possible, my left foot suddenly had no purchase because the pavement dipped down as I passed the ramp. It took me completely by surprise - it felt like falling through an open manhole while window shopping. My leg was fully extended, so I couldn't muscle my bike back up with that leg. Down I went with so much weight on the bike (I'd just done my bi-monthly shopping at Walmart) that I had to run into the auto parts store and get 2 employees to help me get the bike back up so I didn't have to spend 20 minutes in the hot Florida sun unloading all the cargo, lifting the bike up by myself, then strapping everything back on again.
*OUCH!*
So if you're ever maneuvering your bike near a wheelchair ramp, exercise due paranoia.
Off the bike with no kick stand ... Thaz a skill I’m going to go practice
Thanks!! Share it with fellow riders! MotoJitsu.com
I thought I imagined that.
Easily done.
Not that easy on a GS 1200
Kelley Manning on a GS 1200 is very difficult
Every time I've dropped my bike i was trying to back up, every single time! I now push it into the parking space!
lol Good on ya!
I always back into a parking space. With my two side cases I am a wide load, so moving to the far left or right of the space is not always prudent. I worry about cars opening and banging their doors on my bike if parked too close to the line. I never thought about another bike parking next to me since I am in and out quickly when out and about. Great video though!
If there aren't any motorcycle only bays, I will first look for bicycle parking racks as this gives added benefit of something solid to lock to. 2nd choice is does the car park have lamp posts or CCTV cams on poles? If so get up close to one of these, park and lock up.
We all have our own methods!
With all things being equal this makes perfect sense. However, in the UK you’d do this and find a Smart car squeezed in next to you or the car parked to the left would open their doors on you! Great video, well explained as ever.
Thanks!
Thank you!!! I really never thought about parking... I had a great time watching you ride today on Camp Pendleton and learned a great deal. Hopefully, you will be there next week as well. I never seen anyone handle a bike like you did. I want a white belt to start, see ya next week with my heavy road glide... Thanks
You're welcome James!! Be sure to check out my website, my book came out today! motojitsu.com/book
LOL! I can waddle back way more safely than trying to push my bike while off of it!
You really surprised me🙂. I've been riding for several decades and most of what you mentioned were new to me and are good ideas. Good video! Thanks. I am so annoyed by the people that blocked you in.
I've been riding for 25 years., That's some great advice Man jam-packed full of great advice
:) thanks
Yo Eddie, can you do a video on Motorcycle Insurance? What's the best situation to save as far as what you should have, also what do you think of seasonal insurance, riding without insurance, etc.
No need for a video...that's another personal preference thing. I have absolute full coverage...even if I let someone borrow my bike and they get into an accident, it would as if I was riding it, they're fully covered too.
Reasoning for not riding forward into a spot is essentially to avoid walking the bike out yet you had to do the exact same thing in the first place to park, so with this method either way you are holding up the traffic at some point so does it matter? Downside of riding a bike that is big, heavy or too tall for you. It's why I can't stress enough the importance of learning on a bike that fits you rather then starting on something you can't really handle.
I want to pull out when I leave, not back up.
Some guy backed into my bike once when he was backing out of his spot, so now I always try to find a spot that doesn't face other spots if I can.
Good idea!
Dan Phillips hmm. Never thought about that, I could well imagine that happening, many drivers don't pay attention.
I've seen loads of cars back into motorbikes . Car drivers are damb near blind, saying. That my dad seems to reverse into his wheely bin rather often
Happened to me the same, now I am parking in the middle. at least the lady that hit my bike left a note with her contact info and explaining what happened, she covered the repair cost
I'll hog the middle ,I'll stay away from your nice car ,you stay away from my bike .
If a car parked here, it would be just as close.
Yeahhh that's true about the car... But people are used to seeing a car that close to their own. I understand your point of parking like that but it just gives the impression of a jerk. Like when a car takes 2 spots deliberately. Your trusting the passenger of that car not to ding or worse knock over your bike. I've had it happen to my bike, of course with no note attached. I park center front right in line with other bumpers.
Eh, it was on the center stand..very stable...again, I mostly (90%) of the time, I park in the middle.
Yeah I can imagine somebody coming back to their car 🚗 not normally used to seeing a motorcycle parked so close to them like you did and be like wtf? Getting all upset when they don’t realize you were trying to leave room for others in that space. They will just hate you for being parked so close when you had all that room to scoot over. They won’t think about other bikers they will only think about their car. Not a good thing for the protection of your bike.
I had a lot of opinions on how I park, looks like I am good if I followed most of the video. Been riding 23 years and have found each spot a little different. I enjoy taking up the entire space most of the time as I park right in the middle of the spot but closer to the entry point 90 percent of the time. I am just confused as I am 6 feet tall and all bike I have ridden, I can always flat foot when I am on the bike. But turning off the motor and dismounting the bike, I have so many issues with. But we all have our style I guess. Keep the videos coming.
Man, you are cranking out some awesome videos with real world info! This is the kind of stuff that isn't in the motorcycle class. I just put a deposit down on a 2018 sv650 (black with red frame/wheels) I'm pumped to get riding and your content has opened my mind.
Thanks! That's a cool bike! My buddy has a 2017 same bike!
Never thought of this, over here we have those motorcycle specific lots in every car park.
Really good to know in case I have to do this in another country.
Thanks for your channel. Been watching a lot of your videos. Keep it going, I'm learning a lot from them!
Thanks a lot!
I understand your point about trying to leave room for another bike to park, but my LT has fairly wide side cases that I don’t want dinged up by car doors. So, I center my bike in the spot, but err towards the front as you suggest for the reason you state. However, I don’t typically go to the very front of the spot, but try to align with the cars already parked. That allows good visibility to others searching for a spot, yet keeps my front wheel from sticking well into the lane where someone might hit it. I can still push my bike backwards pretty well while seated on it and that is how I back in. I don’t like trying to walk a 900+ lb motorcycle backwards while standing beside it. If there is any upslope, I just engage reverse and back it in that way. 😁
Yup, all variables that a person needs to consider depending on their bike and the situation.
LTVoyager when you park in the center, you invite cage drivers to cross over the line on both sides. Happens all the time.
A very useful tip! I have a micro car and a weee moped. I will definitely apply this. Thank you.
Thanks Fast Eddie... I live in Thailand and we have aisles/lines of motorcycle front entry parking.. and an adventure to get out...
Great advice. I was waiting to hear why you used your center stand. I would use mine as well, less space, but it could fall onto a car if the asphalt is hot enough. That happened to me with my first BMW LT, thankfully it was my BMW X3 it was resting on. Anyway great advice as always, until now I parked in the center of the space (in case my bike fell).
Sweet!
My bike (87 Honda VT1100) doesn't have a center stand, so I cut a small plate of 5/16" aluminum, just small enough to fit in the back pocket on a pair of jeans, to place under the foot of the side stand. This works well on hot asphalt, or softer unpaved surfaces such as grass or dirt, by spreading the load over an area 5 or 6 times wider than the stand foot does.
Not sure about 4 bikes in a single spot. Bunch of reasons. First, the bikes in back can get blocked in. Second... if the bikes up front leave the bikes in the back are not blocked but now they are near the back... and the reason you parked in front was to be seen by cars pulling in. 2 bikes per spot.
If you're all friends meeting up for lunch...why not?
true!
Just something I do, especially if I'm riding with people.
as a newer short rider on a taller bike myself. Definitely put down the kickstand first before you dismount. I ended up eating shit trying to balance and swing my leg off. I'm gonna partly blame it on being frozen stiff from an unexpected downpour soaking me, but yeah... I always make sure that kickstand is down before I dismount now.
Some interesting ideas, thanks. I’d be a bit mindful of parking so close to those car doors though. The only time I wouldn’t do something similar would be if it was on a hill! I’d definitely be rolling downhill backwards out of a space when leaving rather than pushing it backwards uphill when I arrive!
Good video! Thats What I been doing so far! Park aligned with the other cars makes sense so not to be hit by a car!
Just passed my tests and got my A2 licence in the UK. I'm just wondering, what's your experience with carparks? I work at a supermarket and I'm slightly worried about parking my bike in a car bay for 9 hours a day. Do you think its better to park close to a store, where it's busier but less chance of people fucking with your bike? Or park further up the end of the carpark to avoid other cars, but potentially have twats mess with your stuff.
Congrats! Mmm if it's just sitting there for 9 hours, I wouldn't even ride it lol If anything park it in the back of the store, that's what I would do.
Fast Eddie’s Motorcycle Fun thanks for the fast reply. I reckon the easier commute probably isn't worth the risk of my bike being damaged. I've already had multiple elderly women slam their car doors into the side of my car. Don't want the same fate happening to my bike haha. Like you said, 9 hours is probably pushing my luck. Anyways stay safe mate, looking forward to more videos.
Thanks! Good call!
i just got a bike, i park even with the lines (demonstrated) the other end of the spot (front of parking spot?) tends to have oil spots in the middle or so. so parking like this not only helps with cars seeing that a spot is not available, but also avoiding oil getting on ur boots and whatever else
A few things
your backing in when you park is personal taste: nothing changes if you do it first or back out at the end, if you pull in directly you are not allowing car driver to nip in/pulling forward means the car behind will pull in to your parking space while you are walking your bike back..
Parking to either side will allow a car driver to pull in next to your bike risking a hit.. best place is forward middle best line of sight and protecting yourself from learners and car drivers.. we each understand car drivers are not the most umm.. thoughtful? Giving them enough space that they think there vehicles will fit means they will try to fit it’s the same logic that you suggested for pulling forward..
I agree with parking where you did, however its not as easy to back the bike in, off the bike, with a heavy weight cruiser; I waddle mine back. As a rider, It does annoy me when motorcycles park in the center or far in the back (it's how you get your bike hit).
We all have our own ways...and I back up a Goldwing as easy as any other bike..just practice.
I'm a new rider these are some very good parking tips thank u man!
Makes total sense! Thanks for the info!! Watch those kicks Fast Eddie!! Hope that shiner heals quickly!! Be safe!! 🏍😎
Bickerchick4125 Bickerchick4125 Lol I’m good! Lol
Fast Eddie’s Motorcycle Fun that’s good!! 👍🏻😊
Yessss ;)
I do a mix of things depending on the situation. If there's a slope in the spot, I always park facing uphill (I've gotten stuck facing downhill), if it's to the side, I put my stand on the high side as it's a bit of a short stand. I do prefer to drive out if possible.
Normally I stay near the front and middle in public spaces (if you leave space someone will try to squeeze in, and people just are not careful with their cars). At work we tended to share 1 space to 2 bikes as the parking was limited and adjusted for that, one in front off center, the other behind offset.
The advice to park at the front of the stall is absolute gold you are awesome dude so helpful
Thanks!
I don't know why you not fames , you give us great advice and explain every single thing about motorcycle.
I really appreciate it
Thanks!
I usually park at the front of stores. It is common in my area so it's never been an issue.
If I have to take a real parking spot I stay in the middle backed in with my front wheel right up to the fire lane or right where it would be.
Only issue with parking all the way up front and on the side, in my experience, is bad/inexperienced drivers who don't know that turning out brings the nose of their car out. I've had my bike knocked over by one of those people. Was all on camera; the hood of their car swept out right into my bike as they were leaving. It's when they leave in a certain direction, but I consider that a 50-50 chance. Oh and also people's doors opening and slamming into your bike, because car people love opening their doors without looking.
I've tried parking all different ways and observing how people react to it; straight on the side; straight in the middle and middle (not fully pulled up); 45 degree angle in the middle; 45 degree angle on the sides, 45 degree angle pulled in. They all have their own flaws. I've seen people open their car doors and accidentally slam it into bikes next to mine from being parked on the side. I've seen cars try to park in my space with my bike, and realize they don't fit... at all. I've seen people park inches away because...they can? I never found a perfect solution because people are random. But parking the bike at a 45 degree angle and inward more has prevented a lot of drivers from sideswiping with their nose as they pull out. They still manage to get really dang close to hitting it though! Sometimes giving them too much space makes them park closer; sometimes it doesn't matter.
I've also had cars back into my bike from the parking space "across the street" (however you say that). Parking in fully could help prevent that, but invite others to attempt to park in thinking it's an open space, like you mentioned.
The best overall solution I've come up with was to park mostly or fully in, straight and in the middle (or 45 degree angle if you can predict which way their nose turns out), and use a safety/traffic cone near the outside line. People see the cone, even if they don't see the bike yet. If the cone gets hit, no problem. If you're worried about the cone being moved or stolen (it happens), you can attach it to your bike via a long chain and lock. It can stop other bikers (or as many) from parking with you though, depending how you position everything. But it's good for those who stay in apartment complexes, hotels, or similar things that share parking lots. Even for at work if you must park your bike in the parking lot...could just leave the cone at work and take the extra trip in and back out to cone it up. ..Is the cone a perfect solution? Maybe not, but what is? I can say though that it's made incidents go down a ton, I'm not as worried, and people are forced/led to take wider turns into and out of their spaces next to mine.
Yes there's many variables when parking, it would take me hours to explain every possibility, this video and all my videos, are just general outlines to certain topics.
Good points made about sharing a spot. I have to ask though, do you always use your centerstand and why?
Yes, it's more stable that way and I like to jump on and ride off of it when I take off lol
You said dont allow yourself to be blocked in. You also said someone could park behind you. If 3 more bikes park in that spot, the ones in the back are blocked in and can't leave until 1 of the front bikes move. Your theory is a good one but I don't want to be blocked in. I would park beside you but not in the back unless the other bikes are with me..
We would all be friends lol
Hey you’re right across the street from Studio Diner :]
Great tips! Love this channel.
Thanks for watching ❤️ MotoJitsu.com for my App, Books, Merch, Discounts, etc. 👍🏼
It's the kind of common sense that comes with experience. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
So how exactly do the guys in back get out if they finish their errand first? its a tight squeeze through the middle if they have a big bike.
They don't...or if you're all there together, you leave together.
MotoJitsu.com for my new app, books, merch, etc.
That's awesome you're hooking up other riders with room to park)
Always!
For medical reasons I have a trike, a much wider bike (an inch shy of five feet wide in the rear - not kidding). I back in along the center of a parking space and actually center the bike from front to back as well to lessen the odds of being whacked. To solve the oh yeah the space looks empty.. wham into my bike, at home depot i found bright orange foot high traffic cones cheap. I got two and put them in front of my bike at the forward end of the parking space. They serve double duty in my driveway... the black bike cover kinda visually disappears into the black asphalt (especially at night) and i had visions of a visitor pulling in and "oh no I didn't see the bike." The cones are light weight, slip into each other, are flexible, and are easily stored in my storage "trunk" for touring. As a handicapped person who travels, when i cannot find a handicapped space, they also help "save" a space near my hotel room so I don't have to walk so far with a heavy oxygen tank or be in respiratory distress long before i can reach my room.
Great idea!!
This is a heck of a tip. I will definitely keep this in mind. Thanks a lot.
No problem!
Thanks for the senseful Video. Please, don't get me wrong, but in Germany bikers are not allowed to fulfill with two or even four a parking area for one car. But your thoughts for the better direction with a bike are useful.
I HAvnt found a bike I can't flat foot. Silly 2 mile inseam.
Front bikes leave, the back bikes are screwed. 🏍🏍
Thank you always for the great topics and for encouraging thoughtfulness and safety!
I park diagonally to make my bike more visible and make sure someone doesn't try to squeeze in beside it.
Excellent advice. Thanks!
Glad it was helpful!
I would have rolled the Harley out of the way after 5 minutes.
With the handlebars locked and cars in the way?
You only needed 2 feet of clearance to get out :) or go around the cars behind or beside. A sport bike is not that big.
They would have been moved one way or another. If you're a dick head and blocked me in with no way to get out... I have no sympathy when it comes to your bike.. If it gets damaged when I try to move it, so be it.. Quick kick to the handlebars will break the handlebars and roll it on out.
Is there any particular reason why you put the bike on the center stand instead of the kick stand? Thanks Eddie.
More stable, I like the way it looks, it's fun to take it off and ride away.
Thanks Eddie. I really appreciate your channel. MotoJitsu
You're welcome! Kyle Boyett
It really makes sense to me Greg...A lot! 😉 Because you're teaching is not more than just techniques in motor cycling, But you also teaching us all about good manners on how to be a respectful biker to other motorists and co-bikers. 👏👏👏Go job bro! 👍👍👍Your so cool! Keep it up.. 😉
Good tip about backing in, the amount of time i see bikes parked front end in,
Great video and after a two or three attempts to follow your tips, I totally trust your advice. I am a beginner and I have a lot to learn, technically. But how do you do a proper washing of your bike after a long, dirty trip? Thx a lot for your work. Peace!
Thanks!! I use a spray to wash my bike...I just spray it down and wipe it off. It's called Protect All.
Fast Eddie’s Motorcycle Fun Thank you for your fast reply. Ride safe!
No problem!
MotoJitsu Is this the item? Blue bottle? Tried to provide photo but can’t :( Also, you can spray this all over your bike? Meaning chains and all and it won’t do any damage?
Used your parking technique at a restaurant yesterday. Works great! Thank you Fast Eddie.
Awesome!
Fairly new rider, thank you for taking the time to make these great videos!
Really educational and very helpful!
Subscription for sure ! Thanks again bro!
Fantastic! Thanks!
Eddie, my bike is a HD road glide, with passenger its about 1000 lbs, I find for me it’s easier to back in, and in some cases ask the wife to get off, in order to back in easier. We just got back Sturgis, and put 1300 miles on the bike.
Good idea! Every bike and rider is different...some bikes even have a reverse! lol
I completely agree with you. Thanks for the video and take care.
You too
What tires do you currently have?
Pilot Road 4 Trails
Nice video! Very straightforward.
Glad it was helpful!
Great instructions !!!!
Thanks Tom! If I don't have any buddies coming or if this place isn't popular for motorcycles, then I'll park the same way, just in the middle. All depends:)
Thank you for this video, it has definitely changed my thought process.
I'm new to riding. Great video sir!
Or come back and see another bike parked next to you. You're happy you were able to share your spot with a fellow rider until you see your mirrors have been moved and has a small scratch on it..
Great tips though. Just be careful when you "invite" others to come near your bike.
A lot of variables will determine if I do this or not :)
@Fast Eddie's Motorcycle Fun hey mate do you have a link where you got that helmet chin mount for your GoPro?
Pretty sure this is it! www.amazon.com/MotoRadds-Motorcycle-Helmet-Mount-GoPro/dp/B074W2J774/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1533860063&sr=8-1&keywords=chin+mount+gopro
Cheers mate love your work
Thanks!
Thanks bro, I never thought about this!
Good stuff, like your videos. I live in Bangkok - Thailand and parking a bike in a car park is actually not allowed. In Thailand they're not used to big bikes yet, it's only since the last 10 years big bikes starting to get more popular. Motorbikes everywhere, but all 125cc smaller bikes. A bike is a bike here, that's how they think. For that reason bikes are not allowed on tollways and certain highways which sometimes is confusing, certainly with the overcrowded highways around Bangkok, where the majority of cagers are constantly on their phones and don't look in their mirrors. They just go, what's next or behind you is not important, certainly when it has 2 wheels.
Yes, this will vary depending on where you live.
It does indeed. Finding a empty parking lot like the one in your videos is impossible here in Bangkok (with around 14 million inhabitants). You've got some more space there.
Dang, wish you had more space...
Well, once you're getting out of the city the roads are getting quiet with beautiful nature. And it's always warm here. Tomorrow (Sunday the 5th) early start at 5 am with a couple of biker mates for a track day, 75 km outside the city in rural Thailand.
Sounds fun!! Very warm, yes!
Very good tip! Thanks.
If you find yourself parking in a lot with no parking lines, as some convenience stores have, avoid parking pointing down hill. I made that mistake at a rural convenience store while on my Electra Glide (heavy). There were no other vehicles parked on the lot, so I parked well away from the door, positioned out of the way of other vehicles that might come through. A couple of guys pulled up in a pickup, parked right in front of me, got a drink in the store and stood in the doorway watching, waiting and laughing as I worked my butt off getting out of there. Yes, I did loiter around for a bit, but they seemed to be waiting for the show. They finally got one and I learned a good lesson.