Never lose attention on what’s happening now and next. (No phone, no dwelling on what happened moments ago or at work - pay 100% attention on what you can do now)
Funny enough I just did this today. I’m a really good rider on street and track. I zoned out while coming up to a light and if I didn’t swerve I would have hit truck stopped in front of me. Never lose concentration
I look for hazards instinctively even when zoned out. Checking the mirrors and looking to the side before lane changing is completely on auto pilot. It's all about practicing good habits so much that it becomes second nature. Instead of having all your margin in focus mode, leave some for the unfocused as well, because it will save you when things go to shit.
I always ride sober, full gear, and never with anyone else. I ride my own ride, I’ll get there when I show up. Also, a great tip, leave early if you’re on a bike. Putting gear on and taking it off takes time. Have a great weekend, stay safe!
@@spoonman73 I start my bike, put my gloves on, swing a leg, say a prayer and then pop a super dank nooner out the garage… ok, maybe not the last part, but I don’t run my bike at idle for more than a minute. I have about 2 miles of 30mph and a mile of 50mph before I get on the highway, I figure anymore warmup than that is a waste of gas, especially here in the “not so golden” state of California 🤦♂️
I ride a 150cc maxi scooter to work - it’s a 150km++ daily commute. I might look ridiculous to some wearing all those gears while riding a scooter, but what you said about the ground does not get any softer regardless of what I ride really drives home the message. Thanks for doing what you do!
According to crash statistics, you are 70% more likely to die from a 30mph crash than a 25mph crash. So even going what's considered "low speed" can be deadly. Keep riding safe out there 👍
No need lol. If you can fare better in the game of anticipation, then why not? My dad has been riding for 40+ years and has been daily commuting his 125cc Wave while wearing full gear for the past 4 years. Let's just say that it does stack his confidence and while at it, actually because that made him safer and looks really cool so... Point is, you're your own self, if (hopefully not) you're running into an accident, would your pride and what the naysayers said gives you an extra protection in such turn of events? If you're capable for that, why the hell not? Always anticipate and NEVER go faster than your eyes could.✌️
With you there, I'll ride a GROM with full gear and that's a 125cc. I definitely look really dumb as I have a S1000RR, R1, and FZ 07 and my gear is track oriented (no full suits, 2 piece) and thats what I use on the GROM
Highway on a 150cc that does like 60mph(100kmh) max?!. I personally couldn't do it daily it would freak me out not being able to speed up in an emergency
1) Never pass a car when the car has place to make turn in your direction. 2) Give extra space to oncoming cars that can turn left in front of you. 3) Use less front brake while riding in the rain. 4) Keep a finger on the horn button in heavy traffic. 5) Don't race cars for lane position. 6) Don't be a jackass.
@@nateriver5114 The horn can stop someone that is merging into your lane. The horn can also get the car ahead of you moving again after the light turns green. A quick rap on the horn can also get the attention of a chick on the sidewalk. In New York City horn honking is a way of life.
@@nateriver5114 Depends where you ride, in London UK, with heavy tight traffic I use it everyday. On a highway and open roads maybe not needed so much but in packed city, yes for sure
@@nateriver5114 You can do all these things simultaneously with using horn and by using horn a pulling out car can stop just a meter earlier which might save life. As I said, I heavy city traffic, with pedestrians also walking into road like London, to just have to use it
As soon as I see a video about things to avoid, or things you should do in regards to riding, I watch it. Just because there is always a chance I may learn something new, or the off chance I may have forgotten something. And, to show my support of riders who take the time and energy to make these videos. They are really doing a good service for the riding community. And, like watching videos like this, I take the *MAD* course once a year(if you haven't you should, it's fun and even people who have been riding for decades can benefit from it.) I know it can be expensive in some states, I'm lucky it's free in my state. But, it's worth every penny, specially if you're a newb. It's a fun weekend of riding drills, and hanging out with fellow riders.
I'd always wanted a powerful twin bike from when i was like, 17. Finally managed to get an Interceptor 650 at 47 years (thanks to a buggered budget) I ride mostly alone and see many guys zip past me on their 125cc bikes but that's OK. Many folks tell me I'm not utlizing the bike to it's capacity. I've always maintained that I wanted the "FEEL" of a powerful bike and the knowledge that I own one. Am totally happy riding at 80-90kmph max speed knowing I'm in control and getting back home safe. In India, even on highways we have to be ready for the random cow just ambling across the road and people jaywalking. Just unwise doing 130kmph knowing that the next blind turn could have a herd of buffaloes crossing the road....... :(
@Robert DEL POPOLO A Royal Enfield 650 interceptor makes for a very unlikely track bike. I don't think there are a lot of race tracks in India that hold track days for the general public. If he wanted a track bike he would have purchased something like a KTM that is also made in India.
Yep, ride within your comfort zone. Don't let anyone dare you out of it. It took me a couple of years until I started getting the most out of my ZX10 and I'm still no Valentino Rossi. I live in Asia these days and this video's speech about safety reminds me of all the lockdown BS with covid though. Hardly anyone around here wears protective clothing like leathers. For in town riding going to work, you are normally going no faster than 40kmh (25mph). If you fall off at that speed, you don't loose much skin. As for that BS about motorcycle gear protecting you from a broken leg. Motorcycle gear only helps you with skin loss from contact with things like the road. Any impact you will break a leg with wearing sandles and a t-shirt, will also break your leg wearing a full dianese leather racing outfit. There is no unemployment checks around here and one of my in laws leaves this house at 5 in the morning to go to work. I'm sure he's tired a lot. But he has no other form of transport, can't afford to get a tuk tuk to work all the time and will loose that job if he's late all the time, because 'he was too tired to ride his bike to work.' There is a balance to all things and I'm tired of hearing about all this overload on safety sh?t that comes mainly from developed nations. This guy is full of sh?t. If the people watching this video are so timid about riding a motorcycle, don't ride one.
@@martinherald6492 I think David Hough summed it up well: know the risks, and if you accept them, fine. Just don't ignore them, cause that won't make them go away. That risk also changes with the environment; commuting at 25mph, doing 80 on a highway, and ripping it on a dirt trail all have different risks, and different expectations for protection. Sure, you probably don't need a race suit for your commute, but show up in nothing but shorts at a motocross track and you're liable to leave without shins. No amount of gear will guarantee you'll walk away from a crash, but it certainly reduces the risk of serious injury. If you prefer to accept the risk (however high or low it may be), then fine, feel free. As long as you aren't putting someone else at risk, that's your own choice, whether I or anybody else agrees with it. Just don't berate others for giving information so that they can make their own choice with it.
I'm really liking the lean example with the tire you have been doing these last few videos. Really good explanation of what is happening and a great visual.
My wife totaled her bike a year ago but walked away with minor injuries due to her wearing ALLOf the gear. She lost traction in a curve and hit a tree. If not for her full face helmet she wouldn’t have a face. Her riding pants saved her from a broken leg and her spine protection saved her back. She now rides a Polaris Ryker 900 and loves it. Great advice!
Extremely sound advice . My concern as a newer rider which I would still say I am somewhat is that even before I bought my first motorcycle I knew that the riding gear was most important . Took a few months before I could put down about 4 grand into all the top shelf gear and redundant safety gear to feel confident in that I had done just about all I could to minimize injury to myself . I think a neck brace is next and an air vest and that should about do it . I tumbled off my DR650 a couple years ago and rolled a couple times backwards off the bike when offroading in the Sierras . Popped right back up and the rocks and small boulders had no effect on me but I was not going fast and it was a steep uphill deal that I instantly encountered and had to make an instant decision , almost made it through lol . Have a great Mother's Day and if you no longer have a mom then my heart goes out to you . If you have your mom still then be very appreciative and think of those that do not or never knew theirs , be kind to those and count your blessings .
That last point is the most important one for me to hear. I just recently upgraded from years on a moped to a sports bike, and I’m still getting used to the jump in power and also the clutch. In addition to that, I’ve always rode defensively and I’m quite heavy as well, so I don’t ride as fast as others seem to expect me to do. Hearing you talk about it not being a race, about getting home safely is a welcome affirmation for me.
bro just know you saved my life!!!.I am so grateful I found your video man.i got my first bike a KTM rc 250.and I was doing all those mistakes you talked about above.i was just trying to be the fastest etc . but trust me you changed my perspective.thanks❤️
I’m still getting a feel for riding and I come back to this video. Great tips. Some things I think you should DO: 1) slow down before entering a turn 2) Trust your instincts 3) Think ahead
Regarding that front brake, use two fingers, index and middle fingers, only. The ring finger and pinky have the most leverage and can lock that front brake if you use them. Also would highly recommend getting a screwdriver and adjusting the controls so they are in the right position for you (position of levers, foot controls, and suspension). You'd adjust the driver's seat when getting in a car, you should adjust the controls on your motorcycle so they also "fit" you too. There are some good videos on RUclips that show how to properly adjust the controls.
I run a bike group on FB and we have a golden rule that we always ride to the slowest rider in the group and we never push them to ride beyond their limits, so if the whole ride takes an extra half hour, then so be it. We have had people leave our group because we don't ride fast enough for them. I refuse point blank to ride past my abilities and try and keep up with people riding like they're at the TT and I have left rides because of riders like that. I love riding my bike but I love getting to my destination in one piece as well.
I'm not super confident on curves, leaning, and riding on shit roads full of cracks and potholes. The car traffic around me in New York is absolutely crazy, pedestrians run in front of me at the last moment - some of them with guns and other weapons to try and knock someone off their bikes, and other bikers are too fast and too reckless doing wheelies and crap on the street.... therefore, I ride very carefully and I ride alone!
I am in the logging business and when I think of doing something risky to save a few minutes I remind myself I can do this the slower, safer way quicker than I can get to the hospital.
I’m a member of an advanced riding group @elambikers (IAM Advanced in the U.K.) and in any pre ride talk we emphasise RIDE YOUR OWN RIDE. I’ve seen near misses when even very accomplished riders forget this basic rule. Every day is a school day - this is all great stuff. Thank you for sharing. Be safe behind bars ✊
Boy did your comment on cornering too fast hit home. I was on a dual sport ride with a number of friends, and had the most dirt oriented tires. I foolishly tried to keep up through a series of turns along the Blue Ridge Parkway (VA) and almost lost it as both ends were sliding. How I didn't wipe out completely is beyond me. That was the wakeup I needed to learn: My ride, my pace...thanks for the video...always trying to learn something new.
Thank you soooo much for that last part 🙏. I have tried to explain this to "the guys" that just insist I need to go faster, faster faster,. I will now be using your words to better explain why I ride MY ride. No one is coming to take care of my Mother or household etc if I go down!
Yesterday I've lost balance and dropped the bike 2 times almost from a standstill position. When I think about it on a fresh mind, my mistakes which I believe led to my inadequate reactions were: - Both times I've unconsciously grabbed the front brake - I haven't eaten all day - and finally I overheated myself while riding in the rush hours in the city till I get to the garage This was my first longer ride. About 250km. The feeling that I've dropped the bike 2 times is not really good. Hopefully I'll learn from my mistakes and wont repeat them.
Squeezing the brakes saved my bacon the other day when a car pulled out in front of me. I was on a 4-lane highway when a Subaru wagon pulled out, then the lady couldn't decide which lane she really wanted, so she swerved between the two. I think she considered herself as trying to get out of the way once she realized she'd turned out in front of me. Either way, progressive squeezing & pressing the rear pedal quickly brought the bike down from highway speed to parking lot speed without diving or engaging the ABS. It could have been worse! But your talking about being mindful of grabbing or chopping the controls is what I was thinking about at the time. If I'd grabbed the brakes, things could have gone sideways for me. I've also tried to be more mindful of how I change gears, being careful not to chop the throttle or snap the clutch. By focusing on smoothness, I can get up to my target speed more quickly and with more control. So thanks for talking about this stuff, Greg. You're making a positive difference.
Go slow for many months. Ride alone and practice in vacant parking lots, quiet straights and curves. Riding often keeps up your level of coordination too.
I rode late at night when i was new. Im talking 1am ish. The roads were mostly free of cars which is your biggest enemy. After a couple months i easily moved on to day time traffic.. ride safe
I owns a 130 HP Kawasaki but i drive not fast, i ride (with my wife as passenger) to enjoy the air, peace and landscape. To drive like a Freddie Spencer on public roads is for empty brainers only.
Great advice. My only legit road crash in more than 30 years of riding was when I had a hangover and was trying to keep up with a better rider who had a more agile bike.
You're spot on with all your advice and thank you for your great videos, I live in Australia and it can be very hot and on these days i run cold water into my helmet so it's like an air conditioner, better than sweating and doesn't harm the helmet, I've done it for years. Thanks again Andy from Australia 🙂👍
Straight up honest & decent review of basic, proper riding techniques & preparations. Good on you dude for uploading this video. I trust those who need to see It most, actually listened & absorbed what you had to say. Unfortunately, inexperience & ego more often than not gets in the way. *Edit: As an older experienced rider, I watched this twice to see if I could find fault or add to this brief video. None found. Excellent public service message. I wish this sort of thing existed in the late 1970's - early 1980's (mind you, we didn't have the readily accessible protective riding gear back then, let alone something called the Internet) when I was starting out. Cheers mate, from Canada.
I never thought to be possible, but I fell a sleep on my bike, thankfully I woke up in 1-2 seconds, but that was very scary, I was riding from Glastonbury to Bristol at night after 12 hours shift in the factory, it happened 3 times, so I stopped doing 12 hrs shifts.
Really good advice. I also tell new riders (1)never, ever get into a road rage situation on a motorcycle, (2) wait until you're at a stop before you mess with your phone/infotainment system, (3) cars/trucks/buses are not your friend. They will kill you. Avoid getting close to them, riding in their blind spot, etc., and (4) plan your 'park' well. I've seen lots of people lay their bike down at 2mph in parking lots because they didn't think about where/how to park their bike.
Hey MJ, thanks. Some seem to forget, you never master riding.. always a learning opportunity. Repetition and incremental improvement is key. Ignore the subs.. nice work, good short.
I grabbed the front brake mid turn after I went in too fast at about 25mph a week or so into riding on a 125cc, almost low sided but took the brake off and just ran wide, without incident luckily
The last point really spoke to me. I got my licence 2 weeks ago and everytime im on the street i feel like im doing something wrong because every other motorcycle is over taking at every oopportunity and today i got really impatient and did a stupid over take. Idk i felt so dumb because i knew that this was an unecessary risk
The point is, you realised it. Seems you're smart enough to understand what you should and shouldn't be doing, so don't beat yourself up over it. Even veteran riders are still learning. Stay safe.
You're doing it right by riding at your own pace. Especially if you're a new rider (I'm new to street riding too, only been doing it for a year) it's much better to practice safety and good technique on your controls than it is to go fast. The more fluidity you get with your controls will build the basis for great riding in the future. Stay safe and have fun!
Regarding #5, I recall a rider I'd met and when we went over our riding styles and comforts the topic came to speed. His comment was, "if I can't keep up I'll catch up." Smart.
The most honest and truthful answer from an extremely confident rider and a person. Thank you dear friend for this amazing instructions and information. Greetings from Serbia and you just deserved a subscribe and like from me and friends. Keep up with fantastic work and videos.
I love your comments on gear, I was riding a harley ultra limited, it got the death shake at 110km/hr and threw me onto the pavement, I was wearing full gear including a shoei helmet. I was real glad I was, my gloves came off and my hands were badly injured, I got a lacerated liver which was life threatening but luckily I survived. My gear totally saved most of me that day and I will never ride without it . I ride a goldwing now
All your videos are great... But these smaller bite size video of knowledge are nice because they're easy to remember everything you say so when we go on our rides like I'm getting ready to leave now I can take the stuff you say in your videos with me. The short videos are really awesome bite-size chunks of knowledge. they are "Greg's knowledge bombs"
Spot-On, my friend! You explained in two points, why I was a hopeless track racer: on the gas (and on the tarmac) too soon, and cautious to a fault, not wanting an ambulance ride home... Enjoyed the fantasy though, and still riding at 68 years old! Like they say, "The older I get, the faster I rode" 🤣
I limit myself to a 12 pack of domestic beer, before I ride. It gets hot in Texas, so shorts and t-shirts are used, but I like my hands, so gloves are a must. Thankfully my tires are load rated(D) so they can handle abrupt braking. Chasing a faster guy is so much fun and that's how you get faster. That gas station might have a trophy or plaque for winning the street ride.
This kind of video and advices should be aired countinuously in all driving schools. Fantastic work and wisdom, which actually SAVES lives. Full respect, thumb up (whish I could do it several times...) and new sub.
I always tried the full gear rule, but got caught in +45'c weather last year in BC. Felt like riding in an oven at 80 km/hr! I almost fainted! Ended up wearing a long sleeve shirt for sunburn needs, that could breath. Was a game changer until cooler days when again I could wear my coat. Never thought I'd ever ride without a coat but my brain reasoned it was better than blacking out. Has anyone else had this experience?
I live and ride in Arizona, so yes, I know what that feels like. What works for me: 1. Pre-hydrate as much as possible before you ride (the day before) with BOTH water and some type of sports drink (Body Armor, Powerade, Gatorade). Don't forget to include a banana for the potassium. Then continue to hydrate as you ride. I have an ice/water pack with a 'straw/tube for drinking. It sticks to my gas tank with magnets and it's very convenient. 2. Wear MESH armored pants and jacket. These are way better at dissipating heat than leather (of course) or textile jackets and pants. I love my Olympia Moto Sports gear, but I think they're out of business now (they were sold and then the parent company was apparently poorly managed). You'll have to research an alternative. 3. Have water (preferably with ice) available in abundance to wet your shirt with; if you have a wet t-shirt under the mesh, you'll get a swap-cooler effect when you're moving. This doesn't work as well in more humid conditions, but it's a lifesaver in the AZ dry heat. just need to keep the shirt wet. 4. Some people use the vests or bandanas that you soak in water, but those never work well for me, they hear up too fast. The only thing that works for me is a Nano-Ice necklace. It's basically a fabric tube with large liquid-filled beads that you freeze. They stay cooler than the items that only get water soaked. They might be too weird or girly-looking for you, but I got the gray one and wear it just under the edge of my Olympia mesh jacket. 5. For the summer I wear a half helmet for more air circulation. It's better than no helmet. 6. Just talked to another AZ biker 3 days ago who kept his passenger from passing out by buying a block of ice from a convenience store and having her hold it in her lap. He benefitted from this too because it was against his back. I haven't tried it, but I think I will try something like this when it heats up; ice cubes in a gallon zip-lock bag stuffed down the front of my jacket sounds good to me! Good Luck!
@@GoToPhx Thank you for the tips! You sound very well versed in hot climate riding. Well done! It's very unusual for us to have these kind of temperatures for that long in BC, but I will definitely be putting some of those tips in my back pocket. Wonderful info! I'll be sharing with my group :-)
Your advice seems to stick like glue. I probably owe you my life at some point during my time riding. there have been a number of times where, had i not watched your videos, I may not be here today. Thank you for your videos but more importantly thank you for probably saving a lot of peoples lives in a round about way. You're doing great things
The only thing I don't do on this list is wear all the gear. I ride with jeans, hiking boots, jacket without elbow gauurds and foam removed. Needless to say, I always wear a helmet. I'm going to go shopping for proper gear tomorrow. You video has stood out more to me than any other, thank you!!
Smart & sensible, every single one. I'm getting older now, but I still enjoy riding. What's the answer? Slow down and enjoy it. I can't ride as fast as I used to, so I don't. No sense in getting hurt or killed because I didn't use my head.
Great advice. I'm in deer country, so if I get caught having to ride at night, I keep it 45mph or under. I think it has annoyed people behind me, but I didn't worry about it. They can pass me.
Don't get back on the bike immediately after a small incident, thinking you're fine. Rest for at least an hour to get off of adrenaline and run through all of those thoughts on the side of the road. My friend practiced riding in the city with his dad behind him. He stopped abruptly on an orange light, thinking he needed to stop on the line. His dad rear ended him (both on bikes). Dad didn't feel good about that crash but thought he was fine and went on his way home. Hitting the freeway right away, and on the freeway the pain settled in. He got all the way to the residential area near his home, his thoughts must have drifted off about getting some rest and what to do about the bike. Because he was also not properly hydrated on a somewhat hot day, he blacked out while going 30 mph, went off the road, uprooted a small apple tree, plowed into a concrete wall and the bike landed in a driveway with the bike upside down. The BMW boxer engine sticking out on the side had taken out the tree, otherwise it would've hit his knee head on. Dad hadn't ridden in a long time before that, he had gotten the bike almost factory new but it was totalled after that. Wife went crazy over it as expected, so he hasn't gotten another bike since.
Wise words bro, faster you go the bigger the mess. I just try to be smooth and consistent rather than the fastest. good rule also is never look at anything for more than 2 seconds...gday from New Zealand.
I love love love that you talked about wearing good bike gear. I don't know how many times I see eejits riding bikes wearing trainers and shorts, no gloves and a T shirt. Makes my skin crawl. Thanks for the video, maybe come over to the Isle of Man for the TT races one year and we can show you around!
1 more thinng. Check the most essential parts of your bike reguralry, every Monday for example or even every second day. On a 4-th month of riding I found yourself on the motorway with unscrewed gear pedal. I was lucky did not panic and slowly pull over, and I was even luckier that the screw stuck between pedal and base and i did no lose it. So, now every second day i do a quick check wile warming up the bike.
Sometimes the best thing you can do for others is to simply state the obvious, because we all have a terrible habit of setting the 'obvious' aside. Thank you very much for this - it is not trivial; it's life-saving.
Amen to that cornering tip. I had cars and other motorcyclist passing me or is mildly annoyed with me for breaking and going through a curve at a slow speed but after one time having my back tire slip from bad road while corner and almost ran into the guard rail cause of cornering at high speed, I ain't doing that stuff again. Nobody handing me a medal for reaching my destination in one piece so I don't see a reason why I should put myself in danger just to get to my destination a few minutes quicker.
sometimes head is full of thoughts , and you are thinking them, and this takes your awareness off the situation that is happening around you ... shake off your thoughts , you can think them later, blink your eyes few times to "see clearly again", don't think, just perceive and react ... be awake ... you should remember details of the road you made after you arrived, if you don't, that means you wasn't paying attention enough ...
Spot on! Words of wisdom. Especially no one is coming to visit you in the hospital or offer to give u some money for your hospital bills or even just to walk your dog. We can replace 10000 motorcycles but we cannot replace us. Tip: Don't keep looking down on ur gps as you are moving.
You've got a great bike channel. There are others that cover similar topics, but you keep the tone of the conversation calm. So many others let an experience good/bad lead to inflection or excitement in. Unfortunately, you cover some bikes available only outside the USA. I ran into this with the Honda Hornet. The parallel twin 750 in the USA has the clutchless transmission. Sorry, but I'm old school and I may have to endure automatic transmissions in automobiles, but never on motorcycles. A clutch/gear selection freedom to me. Is essential on a bike. I thought Honda was smarter than this.
I enjoy not wearing a helmet....i have been wearing it more lately and am almost not wanting to not wear it( although it does have a blind spot that almost got me in a wreck. I will look better in the future)
Good tips champ, thank you, from an Aussie who lives in Thailand..... may I add, use your mirrors so you know what’s coming up behind and use peripheral vision at all times, use and trust your sixth sense....... 🙏👌😎
Yeah had a crash 2 months ago while adding lean angle and accelerating, lost front grip and swept the asphalt with my body.. also wasnt wearing gloves and only tshirt… yeah i know
Point 2 (partially) and 3 did me in. Went trail riding fully suited up with gear that's not really meant for it (more for touring). Second mistake was grabbing the rear brake on a straight dirt road. It was a stupid mistake, and now here I am, 3 months later, waiting for my smashed tibia to heal. Got 14 screws and 2 metal plates holding it up, and I won't be able to ride for at leas another 3-4 months. PS: Was riding a stock KTM 390 Adventure with all electronics turned off.
I'm used to grabbing the clutch in panic situations. Transition to a maxi-scooter and now I have rear brake where my clutch used to be. Has made for a few interesting moments.
Can you talk about the use of both brakes when stopping, I know a lot of people think you should only use your front brake, but mixing in your back brake before you reach max braking can ultimately slow you don’t sooner…if 5-10 feet can be the difference between getting in a accident and not, the it can also be the difference between life n death
You are right. I have not been on a bike in 40 Years. 65 now. Saw a Harley model Seventy-Two and it looked like my 1972 Harley Sportster. Except way more refined. I told the Dealer when I bought it that I haven't ridden in 40 years and he said let us deliver to your house no charge. I have just been in my neighborhood practicing slow speed maneuvers. If you can't handle a bike at slow speeds you have no business on the road. I bought all the good gear. Something I never had when I used to ride. I was smart enough to put a crash bar and BungKing rear pegs on. I have dumped it once doing U turns. For got the rule Don't grab the front brake in a turn. It launched me off the bike. Good thing I had the gear on. I live in AZ and that day the pavement was about 140 deg. Did not even realize I tonked my head. I had asphalt on the back of my helmet. Great videos.
I went up into the black hills for the first weekend of the rally. Headed for needles hwy folks were going 40 in 15 or 20 mph corners. 1000s of bikes. When one guy came around 2 feet into my lane I turned around and went back to custer. Wait a week after the rally to explore.
You're absolutely correct bro! Life is not race....It doesn't matter you arrived late, as long as you get in your destination safe and sound, that would be very great, than being caught up in a crash or accident....
I had a crash at a big 3 day trip, I was glad I had my leather gear. It ripped my gloves in half, my pants were ripped as well as my left boot, but I came out without a scratch 😅 This happened at the first day of our trip🤣 the Motocycle was still a little rideable so I kept on going and rode to the next moto shop to buy the same things again 🤣🤣🤣
Good point on chasing somebody. When I ride on the knife edge I don’t enjoy it as much as I do when I take a leisurely ride and watch the world go by 👍🏻😁
I couldn't help but notice at the second item you mentioned about gear. I didn't spot a airbag. I was wondering if there is a reasoning for that. Great video, its good to hear these things repeated
I've been riding for decades. In traffic, DON'T TAILGATE! Stay way the hell back. You never know what will go down in front of you and making a panic stop is the last you want to do on a motorcycle. Very likely, the car behind you is following you to close and if you have to stand on your brakes, the person behind you in a car following to close can't stop as fast as you can. On a motorcycle, space is life.
Never assume anybody can see you - assume nobody can. I relates to the "all the gear all the time" point - since many motorcycle accidents occur because we aren't seen, our gear should include reflective and hi viz aspects. All the time.
Excellent video for the new rider. I am trying to watch as many of these videos as I can before my basic riders class next week. I pick up my new KLR650 Adventure after the 2 day class is complete. Thank you for posting.
Thinking of it while looking at this video even makes you smarter. No extra throttle coming out of the corner, because your front wheel will be lighter and might slip from under you. It's things like this that make you a better rider. Some things they don't teach you when going for your license. Brake pressure in the corner 😉👍
greetings from Manila...priceless tips from the BEST rider instructor( motojitsu ) on line....life saving definitely and we need to be reminded More videos please !!
I've wanted to get into motorcycles for years but never had the extra money for it. However I have learned through years of driving professionally that you often get to your destination quicker by backing off the speed by a few mph and focusing on how precise your vehicle operation is. The trip is smoother, and if your focal point is far enough ahead, then you can anticipate more things. Also, the lean angle and throttle answers my age old question about how my dad wrecked when I was a kid. Almost killed him. I bet the same principle applies to braking while cornering.
What else should you never do while riding?
Playing with your cell phone.
@@davidvanameyden7629 Bluetooth and pandora.... why not have both hands on handlebars?
Never lose attention on what’s happening now and next. (No phone, no dwelling on what happened moments ago or at work - pay 100% attention on what you can do now)
Never ride angry .
If your'e not feeling it, dont do it.
Never zone out while riding! Always stay alert and looking for hazards.
This guy watches Dan 😁
@@EliasOwnage95 DanDan is my man ❤️
Staying diligent saves lives. Not loud pipes lol
Funny enough I just did this today. I’m a really good rider on street and track. I zoned out while coming up to a light and if I didn’t swerve I would have hit truck stopped in front of me. Never lose concentration
I look for hazards instinctively even when zoned out. Checking the mirrors and looking to the side before lane changing is completely on auto pilot. It's all about practicing good habits so much that it becomes second nature. Instead of having all your margin in focus mode, leave some for the unfocused as well, because it will save you when things go to shit.
I always ride sober, full gear, and never with anyone else. I ride my own ride, I’ll get there when I show up. Also, a great tip, leave early if you’re on a bike. Putting gear on and taking it off takes time. Have a great weekend, stay safe!
More good advice....about time taken to gear up and gear down.
Exactly the same as me. Safe travels
Takes time to warm up the bike too...
@@spoonman73 I start my bike, put my gloves on, swing a leg, say a prayer and then pop a super dank nooner out the garage… ok, maybe not the last part, but I don’t run my bike at idle for more than a minute. I have about 2 miles of 30mph and a mile of 50mph before I get on the highway, I figure anymore warmup than that is a waste of gas, especially here in the “not so golden” state of California 🤦♂️
@@BJO-s1000xr safe travels to you as well!
I ride a 150cc maxi scooter to work - it’s a 150km++ daily commute. I might look ridiculous to some wearing all those gears while riding a scooter, but what you said about the ground does not get any softer regardless of what I ride really drives home the message.
Thanks for doing what you do!
According to crash statistics, you are 70% more likely to die from a 30mph crash than a 25mph crash. So even going what's considered "low speed" can be deadly. Keep riding safe out there 👍
No need lol. If you can fare better in the game of anticipation, then why not?
My dad has been riding for 40+ years and has been daily commuting his 125cc Wave while wearing full gear for the past 4 years. Let's just say that it does stack his confidence and while at it, actually because that made him safer and looks really cool so... Point is, you're your own self, if (hopefully not) you're running into an accident, would your pride and what the naysayers said gives you an extra protection in such turn of events? If you're capable for that, why the hell not?
Always anticipate and NEVER go faster than your eyes could.✌️
I hit a dog on a 50cc and it messed me up for months.
With you there, I'll ride a GROM with full gear and that's a 125cc. I definitely look really dumb as I have a S1000RR, R1, and FZ 07 and my gear is track oriented (no full suits, 2 piece) and thats what I use on the GROM
Highway on a 150cc that does like 60mph(100kmh) max?!. I personally couldn't do it daily it would freak me out not being able to speed up in an emergency
1) Never pass a car when the car has place to make turn in your direction.
2) Give extra space to oncoming cars that can turn left in front of you.
3) Use less front brake while riding in the rain.
4) Keep a finger on the horn button in heavy traffic.
5) Don't race cars for lane position.
6) Don't be a jackass.
never used the horn in 16 years. it's pointless.
@@nateriver5114 The horn can stop someone that is merging into your lane. The horn can also get the car ahead of you moving again after the light turns green. A quick rap on the horn can also get the attention of a chick on the sidewalk. In New York City horn honking is a way of life.
@@nateriver5114 Depends where you ride, in London UK, with heavy tight traffic I use it everyday. On a highway and open roads maybe not needed so much but in packed city, yes for sure
@@Stno3582 nope.. whenever i might find use for using my horn i have better things to do, like braking hard or swerving.
@@nateriver5114 You can do all these things simultaneously with using horn and by using horn a pulling out car can stop just a meter earlier which might save life. As I said, I heavy city traffic, with pedestrians also walking into road like London, to just have to use it
I’ve been riding for decades. I still learn a lot from watching your videos. Respect!
Same here
always good to be reminded by hazards, people tend to forget ...alot.
As soon as I see a video about things to avoid, or things you should do in regards to riding, I watch it. Just because there is always a chance I may learn something new, or the off chance I may have forgotten something. And, to show my support of riders who take the time and energy to make these videos. They are really doing a good service for the riding community.
And, like watching videos like this, I take the *MAD* course once a year(if you haven't you should, it's fun and even people who have been riding for decades can benefit from it.) I know it can be expensive in some states, I'm lucky it's free in my state. But, it's worth every penny, specially if you're a newb. It's a fun weekend of riding drills, and hanging out with fellow riders.
I'd always wanted a powerful twin bike from when i was like, 17. Finally managed to get an Interceptor 650 at 47 years (thanks to a buggered budget) I ride mostly alone and see many guys zip past me on their 125cc bikes but that's OK. Many folks tell me I'm not utlizing the bike to it's capacity. I've always maintained that I wanted the "FEEL" of a powerful bike and the knowledge that I own one. Am totally happy riding at 80-90kmph max speed knowing I'm in control and getting back home safe. In India, even on highways we have to be ready for the random cow just ambling across the road and people jaywalking. Just unwise doing 130kmph knowing that the next blind turn could have a herd of buffaloes crossing the road....... :(
@Robert DEL POPOLO yeah we have em but we're just too busy...
@Robert DEL POPOLO A Royal Enfield 650 interceptor makes for a very unlikely track bike. I don't think there are a lot of race tracks in India that hold track days for the general public. If he wanted a track bike he would have purchased something like a KTM that is also made in India.
Yep, ride within your comfort zone. Don't let anyone dare you out of it. It took me a couple of years until I started getting the most out of my ZX10 and I'm still no Valentino Rossi. I live in Asia these days and this video's speech about safety reminds me of all the lockdown BS with covid though.
Hardly anyone around here wears protective clothing like leathers. For in town riding going to work, you are normally going no faster than 40kmh (25mph). If you fall off at that speed, you don't loose much skin. As for that BS about motorcycle gear protecting you from a broken leg. Motorcycle gear only helps you with skin loss from contact with things like the road. Any impact you will break a leg with wearing sandles and a t-shirt, will also break your leg wearing a full dianese leather racing outfit. There is no unemployment checks around here and one of my in laws leaves this house at 5 in the morning to go to work. I'm sure he's tired a lot. But he has no other form of transport, can't afford to get a tuk tuk to work all the time and will loose that job if he's late all the time, because 'he was too tired to ride his bike to work.' There is a balance to all things and I'm tired of hearing about all this overload on safety sh?t that comes mainly from developed nations. This guy is full of sh?t. If the people watching this video are so timid about riding a motorcycle, don't ride one.
After watching Itchy Boot's earlier vids and in the Stans, you're not joking about the buffalo. Or cows. Or goats. That would be a real bad day
@@martinherald6492 I think David Hough summed it up well: know the risks, and if you accept them, fine. Just don't ignore them, cause that won't make them go away.
That risk also changes with the environment; commuting at 25mph, doing 80 on a highway, and ripping it on a dirt trail all have different risks, and different expectations for protection. Sure, you probably don't need a race suit for your commute, but show up in nothing but shorts at a motocross track and you're liable to leave without shins. No amount of gear will guarantee you'll walk away from a crash, but it certainly reduces the risk of serious injury. If you prefer to accept the risk (however high or low it may be), then fine, feel free. As long as you aren't putting someone else at risk, that's your own choice, whether I or anybody else agrees with it.
Just don't berate others for giving information so that they can make their own choice with it.
I'm really liking the lean example with the tire you have been doing these last few videos. Really good explanation of what is happening and a great visual.
“I’d rather sweat than bleed” - sage advice.
Helpful one to remember is to dress for the slide, not the ride
Until you pass out from a heat stroke
Always have this on your checklist whenever you ride;
#1) MAKE IT HOME!
Destination is a plus.
My wife totaled her bike a year ago but walked away with minor injuries due to her wearing ALLOf the gear. She lost traction in a curve and hit a tree. If not for her full face helmet she wouldn’t have a face. Her riding pants saved her from a broken leg and her spine protection saved her back. She now rides a Polaris Ryker 900 and loves it. Great advice!
Seems weird you got the brand of your wifes trike/summer snowmobile wrong.
BRP ryker ?
Extremely sound advice . My concern as a newer rider which I would still say I am somewhat is that even before I bought my first motorcycle I knew that the riding gear was most important . Took a few months before I could put down about 4 grand into all the top shelf gear and redundant safety gear to feel confident in that I had done just about all I could to minimize injury to myself . I think a neck brace is next and an air vest and that should about do it . I tumbled off my DR650 a couple years ago and rolled a couple times backwards off the bike when offroading in the Sierras . Popped right back up and the rocks and small boulders had no effect on me but I was not going fast and it was a steep uphill deal that I instantly encountered and had to make an instant decision , almost made it through lol .
Have a great Mother's Day and if you no longer have a mom then my heart goes out to you . If you have your mom still then be very appreciative and think of those that do not or never knew theirs , be kind to those and count your blessings .
That last point is the most important one for me to hear. I just recently upgraded from years on a moped to a sports bike, and I’m still getting used to the jump in power and also the clutch. In addition to that, I’ve always rode defensively and I’m quite heavy as well, so I don’t ride as fast as others seem to expect me to do. Hearing you talk about it not being a race, about getting home safely is a welcome affirmation for me.
bro just know you saved my life!!!.I am so grateful I found your video man.i got my first bike a KTM rc 250.and I was doing all those mistakes you talked about above.i was just trying to be the fastest etc . but trust me you changed my perspective.thanks❤️
I’m still getting a feel for riding and I come back to this video. Great tips. Some things I think you should DO:
1) slow down before entering a turn
2) Trust your instincts
3) Think ahead
Definitely ride your own ride, that's the hardest one to remember because you want to keep up with the crowd.
I found your channel, and realized you were my msf instructor last fall, love your content!
Regarding that front brake, use two fingers, index and middle fingers, only. The ring finger and pinky have the most leverage and can lock that front brake if you use them.
Also would highly recommend getting a screwdriver and adjusting the controls so they are in the right position for you (position of levers, foot controls, and suspension). You'd adjust the driver's seat when getting in a car, you should adjust the controls on your motorcycle so they also "fit" you too. There are some good videos on RUclips that show how to properly adjust the controls.
I run a bike group on FB and we have a golden rule that we always ride to the slowest rider in the group and we never push them to ride beyond their limits, so if the whole ride takes an extra half hour, then so be it.
We have had people leave our group because we don't ride fast enough for them. I refuse point blank to ride past my abilities and try and keep up with people riding like they're at the TT and I have left rides because of riders like that.
I love riding my bike but I love getting to my destination in one piece as well.
I'm not super confident on curves, leaning, and riding on shit roads full of cracks and potholes. The car traffic around me in New York is absolutely crazy, pedestrians run in front of me at the last moment - some of them with guns and other weapons to try and knock someone off their bikes, and other bikers are too fast and too reckless doing wheelies and crap on the street.... therefore, I ride very carefully and I ride alone!
@@mujjuman And I thought my daily commute to work was bad enough with the state of our roads here in the UK
I am in the logging business and when I think of doing something risky to save a few minutes I remind myself I can do this the slower, safer way quicker than I can get to the hospital.
I’m a member of an advanced riding group @elambikers (IAM Advanced in the U.K.) and in any pre ride talk we emphasise RIDE YOUR OWN RIDE. I’ve seen near misses when even very accomplished riders forget this basic rule. Every day is a school day - this is all great stuff. Thank you for sharing. Be safe behind bars ✊
Boy did your comment on cornering too fast hit home. I was on a dual sport ride with a number of friends, and had the most dirt oriented tires. I foolishly tried to keep up through a series of turns along the Blue Ridge Parkway (VA) and almost lost it as both ends were sliding. How I didn't wipe out completely is beyond me. That was the wakeup I needed to learn: My ride, my pace...thanks for the video...always trying to learn something new.
lesson learned for sure
Thank you soooo much for that last part 🙏. I have tried to explain this to "the guys" that just insist I need to go faster, faster faster,. I will now be using your words to better explain why I ride MY ride. No one is coming to take care of my Mother or household etc if I go down!
Yesterday I've lost balance and dropped the bike 2 times almost from a standstill position.
When I think about it on a fresh mind, my mistakes which I believe led to my inadequate reactions were:
- Both times I've unconsciously grabbed the front brake
- I haven't eaten all day
- and finally I overheated myself while riding in the rush hours in the city till I get to the garage
This was my first longer ride. About 250km. The feeling that I've dropped the bike 2 times is not really good. Hopefully I'll learn from my mistakes and wont repeat them.
Absolutely GREAT advice.....never give in to peer pressure. Ride for economy. Ride for exercise. Ride for enjoyment. Full gear always.
Squeezing the brakes saved my bacon the other day when a car pulled out in front of me. I was on a 4-lane highway when a Subaru wagon pulled out, then the lady couldn't decide which lane she really wanted, so she swerved between the two. I think she considered herself as trying to get out of the way once she realized she'd turned out in front of me. Either way, progressive squeezing & pressing the rear pedal quickly brought the bike down from highway speed to parking lot speed without diving or engaging the ABS. It could have been worse! But your talking about being mindful of grabbing or chopping the controls is what I was thinking about at the time. If I'd grabbed the brakes, things could have gone sideways for me.
I've also tried to be more mindful of how I change gears, being careful not to chop the throttle or snap the clutch. By focusing on smoothness, I can get up to my target speed more quickly and with more control. So thanks for talking about this stuff, Greg. You're making a positive difference.
I’m easily the slowest. Only been riding for a couple of weeks but during my training I really didn’t like the higher speeds
Go slow for many months. Ride alone and practice in vacant parking lots, quiet straights and curves. Riding often keeps up your level of coordination too.
@@andrewhansen4179 Car parks are my favourite places :)
Solo riding often helps. Map out your ride, practice in a lot before you take off. These things have helped me after being off a bike for 30 years.
I rode late at night when i was new. Im talking 1am ish. The roads were mostly free of cars which is your biggest enemy. After a couple months i easily moved on to day time traffic.. ride safe
I owns a 130 HP Kawasaki but i drive not fast, i ride (with my wife as passenger) to enjoy the air, peace and landscape. To drive like a Freddie Spencer on public roads is for empty brainers only.
Great advice. My only legit road crash in more than 30 years of riding was when I had a hangover and was trying to keep up with a better rider who had a more agile bike.
You're spot on with all your advice and thank you for your great videos, I live in Australia and it can be very hot and on these days i run cold water into my helmet so it's like an air conditioner, better than sweating and doesn't harm the helmet, I've done it for years. Thanks again Andy from Australia 🙂👍
Straight up honest & decent review of basic, proper riding techniques & preparations. Good on you dude for uploading this video. I trust those who need to see It most, actually listened & absorbed what you had to say. Unfortunately, inexperience & ego more often than not gets in the way.
*Edit: As an older experienced rider, I watched this twice to see if I could find fault or add to this brief video. None found. Excellent public service message. I wish this sort of thing existed in the late 1970's - early 1980's (mind you, we didn't have the readily accessible protective riding gear back then, let alone something called the Internet) when I was starting out. Cheers mate, from Canada.
I never thought to be possible, but I fell a sleep on my bike, thankfully I woke up in 1-2 seconds, but that was very scary, I was riding from Glastonbury to Bristol at night after 12 hours shift in the factory, it happened 3 times, so I stopped doing 12 hrs shifts.
bro...thats scary..
that glasto to Bristol route it nice though! though I suppose a 12 hour shift makes it less fun haha
Really good advice. I also tell new riders (1)never, ever get into a road rage situation on a motorcycle, (2) wait until you're at a stop before you mess with your phone/infotainment system, (3) cars/trucks/buses are not your friend. They will kill you. Avoid getting close to them, riding in their blind spot, etc., and (4) plan your 'park' well. I've seen lots of people lay their bike down at 2mph in parking lots because they didn't think about where/how to park their bike.
Hey MJ, thanks. Some seem to forget, you never master riding.. always a learning opportunity. Repetition and incremental improvement is key. Ignore the subs.. nice work, good short.
I grabbed the front brake mid turn after I went in too fast at about 25mph a week or so into riding on a 125cc, almost low sided but took the brake off and just ran wide, without incident luckily
The last point really spoke to me. I got my licence 2 weeks ago and everytime im on the street i feel like im doing something wrong because every other motorcycle is over taking at every oopportunity and today i got really impatient and did a stupid over take. Idk i felt so dumb because i knew that this was an unecessary risk
The point is, you realised it.
Seems you're smart enough to understand what you should and shouldn't be doing, so don't beat yourself up over it.
Even veteran riders are still learning.
Stay safe.
You're doing it right by riding at your own pace.
Especially if you're a new rider (I'm new to street riding too, only been doing it for a year) it's much better to practice safety and good technique on your controls than it is to go fast. The more fluidity you get with your controls will build the basis for great riding in the future.
Stay safe and have fun!
just dont get tempted going faster is not the biggest thing
great that you realized ...DONT do it again !!!... :)
Speed gets you killed in the bends.
Regarding #5, I recall a rider I'd met and when we went over our riding styles and comforts the topic came to speed. His comment was, "if I can't keep up I'll catch up." Smart.
SHOW US THE CAT
lmao, SAME. for some reason i wanted to see kitty kitty, badly. felines reign supreme
The most honest and truthful answer from an extremely confident rider and a person. Thank you dear friend for this amazing instructions and information. Greetings from Serbia and you just deserved a subscribe and like from me and friends. Keep up with fantastic work and videos.
If it's too hot to wear my gear, it's too hot to ride.
For this reason I'm shopping for a light colored second set of gear rather than going out unprotected when it's hot.
I love your comments on gear, I was riding a harley ultra limited, it got the death shake at 110km/hr and threw me onto the pavement, I was wearing full gear including a shoei helmet. I was real glad I was, my gloves came off and my hands were badly injured, I got a lacerated liver which was life threatening but luckily I survived. My gear totally saved most of me that day and I will never ride without it . I ride a goldwing now
All your videos are great...
But these smaller bite size video of knowledge are nice because they're easy to remember everything you say so when we go on our rides like I'm getting ready to leave now I can take the stuff you say in your videos with me.
The short videos are really awesome bite-size chunks of knowledge.
they are
"Greg's knowledge bombs"
Spot-On, my friend!
You explained in two points, why I was a hopeless track racer: on the gas (and on the tarmac) too soon, and cautious to a fault, not wanting an ambulance ride home...
Enjoyed the fantasy though, and still riding at 68 years old!
Like they say, "The older I get, the faster I rode" 🤣
I love your straight forward sensibility. You are an EXCELLENT teacher.
I limit myself to a 12 pack of domestic beer, before I ride. It gets hot in Texas, so shorts and t-shirts are used, but I like my hands, so gloves are a must. Thankfully my tires are load rated(D) so they can handle abrupt braking. Chasing a faster guy is so much fun and that's how you get faster. That gas station might have a trophy or plaque for winning the street ride.
This kind of video and advices should be aired countinuously in all driving schools. Fantastic work and wisdom, which actually SAVES lives.
Full respect, thumb up (whish I could do it several times...) and new sub.
I always tried the full gear rule, but got caught in +45'c weather last year in BC. Felt like riding in an oven at 80 km/hr! I almost fainted! Ended up wearing a long sleeve shirt for sunburn needs, that could breath. Was a game changer until cooler days when again I could wear my coat. Never thought I'd ever ride without a coat but my brain reasoned it was better than blacking out. Has anyone else had this experience?
I live and ride in Arizona, so yes, I know what that feels like. What works for me: 1. Pre-hydrate as much as possible before you ride (the day before) with BOTH water and some type of sports drink (Body Armor, Powerade, Gatorade). Don't forget to include a banana for the potassium. Then continue to hydrate as you ride. I have an ice/water pack with a 'straw/tube for drinking. It sticks to my gas tank with magnets and it's very convenient. 2. Wear MESH armored pants and jacket. These are way better at dissipating heat than leather (of course) or textile jackets and pants. I love my Olympia Moto Sports gear, but I think they're out of business now (they were sold and then the parent company was apparently poorly managed). You'll have to research an alternative. 3. Have water (preferably with ice) available in abundance to wet your shirt with; if you have a wet t-shirt under the mesh, you'll get a swap-cooler effect when you're moving. This doesn't work as well in more humid conditions, but it's a lifesaver in the AZ dry heat. just need to keep the shirt wet. 4. Some people use the vests or bandanas that you soak in water, but those never work well for me, they hear up too fast. The only thing that works for me is a Nano-Ice necklace. It's basically a fabric tube with large liquid-filled beads that you freeze. They stay cooler than the items that only get water soaked. They might be too weird or girly-looking for you, but I got the gray one and wear it just under the edge of my Olympia mesh jacket. 5. For the summer I wear a half helmet for more air circulation. It's better than no helmet. 6. Just talked to another AZ biker 3 days ago who kept his passenger from passing out by buying a block of ice from a convenience store and having her hold it in her lap. He benefitted from this too because it was against his back. I haven't tried it, but I think I will try something like this when it heats up; ice cubes in a gallon zip-lock bag stuffed down the front of my jacket sounds good to me! Good Luck!
@@GoToPhx Thank you for the tips! You sound very well versed in hot climate riding. Well done! It's very unusual for us to have these kind of temperatures for that long in BC, but I will definitely be putting some of those tips in my back pocket. Wonderful info! I'll be sharing with my group :-)
@@billmcmeekin7909 Glad to help!
Thanks, Bro. I can always use a good talking to about my riding. I've been riding off and on for 40 years, and it's always good to hear good advice.
“I’d rather sweat than B L E E D” spoken like a true Stoic
Your advice seems to stick like glue. I probably owe you my life at some point during my time riding. there have been a number of times where, had i not watched your videos, I may not be here today. Thank you for your videos but more importantly thank you for probably saving a lot of peoples lives in a round about way. You're doing great things
You’re welcome!
" I'd rather sweat than bleed " that's a 👕 right there .
The only thing I don't do on this list is wear all the gear. I ride with jeans, hiking boots, jacket without elbow gauurds and foam removed. Needless to say, I always wear a helmet.
I'm going to go shopping for proper gear tomorrow.
You video has stood out more to me than any other, thank you!!
don't get angry at other drivers
Smart & sensible, every single one.
I'm getting older now, but I still enjoy riding.
What's the answer? Slow down and enjoy it. I can't ride as fast as I used to, so I don't. No sense in getting hurt or killed because I didn't use my head.
I am learning a lot all the way from Nairobi, Kenya. Biggest fan.
Great advice. I'm in deer country, so if I get caught having to ride at night, I keep it 45mph or under. I think it has annoyed people behind me, but I didn't worry about it. They can pass me.
Don't get back on the bike immediately after a small incident, thinking you're fine. Rest for at least an hour to get off of adrenaline and run through all of those thoughts on the side of the road.
My friend practiced riding in the city with his dad behind him. He stopped abruptly on an orange light, thinking he needed to stop on the line. His dad rear ended him (both on bikes). Dad didn't feel good about that crash but thought he was fine and went on his way home. Hitting the freeway right away, and on the freeway the pain settled in. He got all the way to the residential area near his home, his thoughts must have drifted off about getting some rest and what to do about the bike. Because he was also not properly hydrated on a somewhat hot day, he blacked out while going 30 mph, went off the road, uprooted a small apple tree, plowed into a concrete wall and the bike landed in a driveway with the bike upside down. The BMW boxer engine sticking out on the side had taken out the tree, otherwise it would've hit his knee head on. Dad hadn't ridden in a long time before that, he had gotten the bike almost factory new but it was totalled after that. Wife went crazy over it as expected, so he hasn't gotten another bike since.
Wise words bro, faster you go the bigger the mess. I just try to be smooth and consistent rather than the fastest. good rule also is never look at anything for more than 2 seconds...gday from New Zealand.
No drinking agreed...but a quick smoke and some wheelies has been my modus operandi for years
I like a handful of mushrooms before hitting the country roads. Gives the ride a pleasant dream-like quality
@@vaportrail226 hell yes....
ShroomNzoom
I love love love that you talked about wearing good bike gear. I don't know how many times I see eejits riding bikes wearing trainers and shorts, no gloves and a T shirt. Makes my skin crawl.
Thanks for the video, maybe come over to the Isle of Man for the TT races one year and we can show you around!
Dress for the slide, not the ride
1 more thinng. Check the most essential parts of your bike reguralry, every Monday for example or even every second day. On a 4-th month of riding I found yourself on the motorway with unscrewed gear pedal. I was lucky did not panic and slowly pull over, and I was even luckier that the screw stuck between pedal and base and i did no lose it. So, now every second day i do a quick check wile warming up the bike.
Don't tailgate!
Great advice thanks been riding 60 years haven't been down yet !!! Mostly by practicing what you just said
Sometimes the best thing you can do for others is to simply state the obvious, because we all have a terrible habit of setting the 'obvious' aside. Thank you very much for this - it is not trivial; it's life-saving.
Amen to that cornering tip. I had cars and other motorcyclist passing me or is mildly annoyed with me for breaking and going through a curve at a slow speed but after one time having my back tire slip from bad road while corner and almost ran into the guard rail cause of cornering at high speed, I ain't doing that stuff again. Nobody handing me a medal for reaching my destination in one piece so I don't see a reason why I should put myself in danger just to get to my destination a few minutes quicker.
sometimes head is full of thoughts , and you are thinking them, and this takes your awareness off the situation that is happening around you ... shake off your thoughts , you can think them later, blink your eyes few times to "see clearly again", don't think, just perceive and react ... be awake ... you should remember details of the road you made after you arrived, if you don't, that means you wasn't paying attention enough ...
Spot on! Words of wisdom. Especially no one is coming to visit you in the hospital or offer to give u some money for your hospital bills or even just to walk your dog.
We can replace 10000 motorcycles but we cannot replace us.
Tip: Don't keep looking down on ur gps as you are moving.
Just want to say thanks for all you do, man! I bought your app today and am heading to a parking lot to run some drills.
You've got a great bike channel. There are others that cover similar topics, but you keep the tone of the conversation calm. So many others let an experience good/bad lead to inflection or excitement in.
Unfortunately, you cover some bikes available only outside the USA. I ran into this with the Honda Hornet. The parallel twin 750 in the USA has the clutchless transmission. Sorry, but I'm old school and I may have to endure automatic transmissions in automobiles, but never on motorcycles. A clutch/gear selection freedom to me. Is essential on a bike.
I thought Honda was smarter than this.
i like how he is like my brother giving me advices while being full sincere mannered and humble. nice video liked n subscribed
68 yr old yooper Dan. Kawasaki z 400. 1st bike. Very helpful video!
most underrated youtube channel for motorcycles period, hands down easily among my top three
Been riding for 9 months,my highway max speed is 80km per hour xD,still lot to learn thank you for the advises ♥️
Absolutely great advice and presented well. I am guilty of not wearing any gear and I know I should. This was a motivating video to fix that.
I enjoy not wearing a helmet....i have been wearing it more lately and am almost not wanting to not wear it( although it does have a blind spot that almost got me in a wreck. I will look better in the future)
Good tips champ, thank you, from an Aussie who lives in Thailand..... may I add, use your mirrors so you know what’s coming up behind and use peripheral vision at all times, use and trust your sixth sense....... 🙏👌😎
Didn’t know you shouldn’t hit the gas while leaning , I been riding canyons lately and I’ve been doing this so I’m glad I seen this🤙🏻
Dont add throttle and lean angle, either hold your speed and lean or reduce speed while leaning (safer)
My three drops have each been from grabbing the front brake. A few scratches but lots of embarrassment.
Your words are pure wisdom, Greg
God knows how many lives you are saving.
you are a Saint on a motorbike
How to teach rider safety. Do a video like this guy. Simple, to the point, and clear with no showy ego B/S.
Thank you for this.
Thank you so much for the advice! Appreciate that you take your time to help others to ride safer!
Bro, best five things about safe riding i've heard! Thank you!
Yeah had a crash 2 months ago while adding lean angle and accelerating, lost front grip and swept the asphalt with my body.. also wasnt wearing gloves and only tshirt… yeah i know
Been there...ouch!
Point 2 (partially) and 3 did me in. Went trail riding fully suited up with gear that's not really meant for it (more for touring). Second mistake was grabbing the rear brake on a straight dirt road. It was a stupid mistake, and now here I am, 3 months later, waiting for my smashed tibia to heal. Got 14 screws and 2 metal plates holding it up, and I won't be able to ride for at leas another 3-4 months.
PS: Was riding a stock KTM 390 Adventure with all electronics turned off.
As always, thanks for the reminders! Sometimes we do forget, every ride should be an exercise in improvement to go with the joy of the experience.
I'm used to grabbing the clutch in panic situations. Transition to a maxi-scooter and now I have rear brake where my clutch used to be. Has made for a few interesting moments.
I’ve been riding for years….!!
Listen to this man…. All very good tips
Especially…. Don’t try to ride beyond your scope…!!
RIDE SAFE….!!!👀👀👀👀👀👀👀
Can you talk about the use of both brakes when stopping, I know a lot of people think you should only use your front brake, but mixing in your back brake before you reach max braking can ultimately slow you don’t sooner…if 5-10 feet can be the difference between getting in a accident and not, the it can also be the difference between life n death
You are right. I have not been on a bike in 40 Years. 65 now. Saw a Harley model Seventy-Two and it looked like my 1972 Harley Sportster. Except way more refined. I told the Dealer when I bought it that I haven't ridden in 40 years and he said let us deliver to your house no charge. I have just been in my
neighborhood practicing slow speed maneuvers. If you can't handle a bike at slow speeds you have no business on the road. I bought all the good gear. Something I never had when I used to ride. I was smart enough to put a crash bar and BungKing rear pegs on. I have dumped it once doing U turns. For got the rule Don't grab the front brake in a turn. It launched me off the bike. Good thing I had the gear on. I live in AZ and that day the pavement was about 140 deg. Did not even realize I tonked my head. I had asphalt on the back of my helmet. Great videos.
I went up into the black hills for the first weekend of the rally. Headed for needles hwy folks were going 40 in 15 or 20 mph corners. 1000s of bikes. When one guy came around 2 feet into my lane I turned around and went back to custer. Wait a week after the rally to explore.
You're absolutely correct bro! Life is not race....It doesn't matter you arrived late, as long as you get in your destination safe and sound, that would be very great, than being caught up in a crash or accident....
exactly
I had a crash at a big 3 day trip, I was glad I had my leather gear. It ripped my gloves in half, my pants were ripped as well as my left boot, but I came out without a scratch 😅
This happened at the first day of our trip🤣 the Motocycle was still a little rideable so I kept on going and rode to the next moto shop to buy the same things again 🤣🤣🤣
Good point on chasing somebody. When I ride on the knife edge I don’t enjoy it as much as I do when I take a leisurely ride and watch the world go by 👍🏻😁
I couldn't help but notice at the second item you mentioned about gear. I didn't spot a airbag. I was wondering if there is a reasoning for that. Great video, its good to hear these things repeated
I've been riding for decades. In traffic, DON'T TAILGATE! Stay way the hell back. You never know what will go down in front of you and making a panic stop is the last you want to do on a motorcycle. Very likely, the car behind you is following you to close and if you have to stand on your brakes, the person behind you in a car following to close can't stop as fast as you can. On a motorcycle, space is life.
Never assume anybody can see you - assume nobody can. I relates to the "all the gear all the time" point - since many motorcycle accidents occur because we aren't seen, our gear should include reflective and hi viz aspects. All the time.
Excellent video for the new rider. I am trying to watch as many of these videos as I can before my basic riders class next week. I pick up my new KLR650 Adventure after the 2 day class is complete. Thank you for posting.
thanks!
instagram.com/motojitsuclub/
Awesome video Greg! Really great - these are top priority 5 things for sure. 👊🏍
Thinking of it while looking at this video even makes you smarter. No extra throttle coming out of the corner, because your front wheel will be lighter and might slip from under you. It's things like this that make you a better rider. Some things they don't teach you when going for your license. Brake pressure in the corner 😉👍
greetings from Manila...priceless tips from the BEST rider instructor( motojitsu ) on line....life saving definitely and we need to be reminded
More videos please !!
Absolutely agree about not riding out of the comfort zone and taking risks.
I've wanted to get into motorcycles for years but never had the extra money for it. However I have learned through years of driving professionally that you often get to your destination quicker by backing off the speed by a few mph and focusing on how precise your vehicle operation is. The trip is smoother, and if your focal point is far enough ahead, then you can anticipate more things.
Also, the lean angle and throttle answers my age old question about how my dad wrecked when I was a kid. Almost killed him. I bet the same principle applies to braking while cornering.