Check out the website for great supporter gear www.oldnotdead.club/shop Follow me on Instagram @_OldNotDead Join our community - Old Not Dead Face Book Group facebook.com/groups/oldnotdead
I'm very glad to see some one telling new riders about safety. You need to tell your Viewers about safety course's because they are the best way to learn how to ride and they teach riders on what you are saying
Also the smallest car will still win.... I had determined in my experiences people tend to bunch up in packs.... Sometimes it's easier to let them go on ahead and trail them until it's time to stay ahead of the next pack creeping from behind....
I received my motorcycle license in1967. I am now 73. It was drilled into my brain early on by my elderly motorcyclist neighbor,” as a motorcyclist you ( and only you) are 100 percent responsible for your own well being. The other driver may have been in the wrong, but you will still be dead. Take that responsibility seriously!
@@youareIndenial981god damn right. Learned that the hard way. Trying to regain my confidence again. Lady didn’t yield and totaled my drz I now have a sportster 1200
I have a "there's a price on my head and every vehicle on the road is operated by an assasin." Attitude . My first time leaving my lower population state in USA was to buy my new bike I had never been on a 3 way highway before .... ended up on 4 and 5 lane highways. My plan.... ride a little faster than everyone and stay on the far left lane which is opposite from on ramp merging traffic here in USA. Worked. Home alive.
Yes sir. Get away from the traffic and find a spot on the highway by yourself with good vision ahead. You have to see if anything is laying on the road way out there so you have time to miss it.
Great points. When I am riding and realize that I am feeling tense, I consciously tell myself to relax... and I ease my grip, relax my arms and do a few side-to-side neck stretches and so on. I realize that if I am feeling tense then I won't be able to flow as quickly and that could spell disaster if I must react quickly to save my life by avoiding an accident. Also, I realize that tension has its roots in how I am thinking, so along with loosening a tight grip and such, I remind myself to enjoy the ride and relax, relax, relax... while remaining alert. Thanks again, especially for your humor.
Great video. Thanks. I'll be 67 next month. I'm in the U.S. Started riding on the street at 16 years old. Took a break from bikes in my mid 20's to raise family. Got back on a HD Road King about 7 years ago and loving it. Enjoy riding and have no problem avoiding the poor drivers while sitting back and letting them demonstrate their madness! I find that most people are still respectful...but not as much as 20 years ago! My main problem has been distracted drivers with phones etc.
Same, I'm a cyclist. If a car is stopped, I always check to see if the driver is looking at me before I ride past in front of them. If they're not paying attention and they decide to take off, I'm a pancake.
My favourite RUclips channel. I’ve always had CRANKY Harley’s. I ride aggressively 99% of the time. I’m a very capable rider and do these 5 things. I think riding with purpose and a slight attitude has kept me out of trouble and kept the love of riding alive for over 35 years…..
I have been ridding motorcycles for more than 50 years. These are 5 brilliant pieces of advise that many seasoned riders never learn. Lane splitting is illegal in some states so be careful. Older bikers don't stop riding, they downgrade. The only people that knock Harley's are those that have never owned one. Well done mate.
Lane splitting is asking for trouble. And yes, it's illegal everywhere except California. There are several good reasons why it's illegal. I might be wrong, but I believe the huge traffic backups and the likelihood of bikes and riders overheating are a consideration I'm California. Please correct me if I am wrong. Secondly, this notion of riding faster than traffic is misleading. Overtaking vehicles to find a spot with room around you (front, back, and side) and settling in and maintaining a good following distance will save your life and save you from speeding tickets. Of course, conditions change, and you'll have to adjust.
@@chuckwagon1892I really feel like this guy is just a 🤡 trying sound like he knows what he's talking about. I thought this video was satire at first then realized he was serious. Are you kidding me?
Great points especially the first one. You don't ever want to blend in with traffic. Also be aware when taking off first at traffic lights. I had a near miss once when a car ran a red light luckily I had taken off late that time and was able to see him and stop. That late second saved me.
Eyes open on the look out for Vehicles in front by sides and behind you to fast you lose reaction time to slow you may get ran over. Ride your own ride and not driver's
As I ride alone frequently, I’ve developed a chaos style of riding. I change lane position frequently. I “shake” the bike on occasion. I make it look like I don’t know what I’m doing. I make it look like I might do something “insane” at any time. I find that cars behind me pay more attention to me and don’t really want to be around me. It’s a kind of virtual buffer zone.
I’ve been riding for 50 years and you will never convince me that splitting lanes is NOt a safety issue. I’ve seen a number of times where car drivers will even try to squeeze you out.
Lane splitting is illegal in Many States, and will get you hurt, killed, or when a cop sees you do it, you will recieve a CNI citation, & lose 3 points off of your liscense
I agree I don't have 50 years of experience but I also think it ABSOLUTELY pisses people off and gives off an elitist " I AM BETTER THEN YOU" Attitude. Which most folks take issue with.
Called "filtering" in the UK. I did it on a BMW I had just bought, forgot I had panniers, oops! My Road glide is too wide most of the time and I can't be bothered with blasting away from the lights... been there, done it, go the T-shirt!
I always take this with me when I ride. Search, identify, prodict and deside is what I was thought. Defensive driving. Always think that someone will do something stupid when your riding. Thank you so much for your fantastic videos.
G'day, 1st time on this page, yes I've liked and subscribed. I ride a naked, BMW S1000R, 2016 Model. I've rode on the road at 16, 9months, P's 2 weeks after L's. I'm now 61 and still love riding. I find your channel, informative, great humour, and an all-around positive love of 2 wheels, what ever breed they may be. Cheers to you, the old but not dead, I feel comfortable listening to what you have to offer, as I've always said, you can never be too old to learn something new! Annie 🇦🇺👍🏽👌🏽🔥😎
I agree that you need to keep a safe distance from traffic, but the throttle is not the only way to achieve it. Everyone cannot be faster than everyone else. Mathematically impossible. Handy gadgets also hanging from the handlebars: Mirrors. Use them. Find your space in traffic and keep it. Senseless to chase everything in front of you
You have to ride Defensively treat cars and trucks with respect. Treat all vehicles at intersections like they may pull out on you be prepared to take action
Well done. The saftey chats make people think. I would add failing to do slow speed practice so use can u turn at full lock. This increases your skill level faster.
Agree, on 2,3 etc. wheels, always know your out. It might be the inside shoulder or the outside, hell it might even be the grass. Anticipate everybody making that ONE big mistake. Just always know your out.
Good points, practice emergency braking as much as you can to be comfortable with it. People who are not any good at this are the ones you see throwing their feet out when they panic trying to stop very quickly. It's a skill you need and practice makes perfect.
Re: 3 Position , As a rule of thumb I’ll make sure that I can see the drivers face in their mirror IF I have to ride behind them , so they’ll have a better chance of knowing I’m there
Your advice applies not only to Harley drivers. I have been doing those things since the beginning. That is how you become an hold biker. Keep on the good work… ✌🏻
A very dear friend of mine once told me when I started out riding motorcycles, 'in the first 5 years of riding the likelihood of crashing where you break a bone is over 90%, after that it drops to less than 10%.' Boy oh boy was he right. Almost 5 years to the day I had a crash and broke my arm and spent 2 weeks in the hospital. That was 1993. Baggy died this past January. He was a day shy of his 60th birthday. I really miss my friend 😢
I grew up on a dirt bike. Loved riding baja in Saudi Arabia back in the 80s. In riding my '21 Road Glide these days, I have been in two situations where my dirt bike riding skills kicked in. Was surprised how well the bike handled when having to stop to avoid a collision. More over, loved the way the bike handled when a timber was thrown(cement truck) in front of my bike. I went over the timber at 70 mph and achieved flight. LOL Lost both tires and wheels but not a scratch on the bike. Harley Davidson helped me with those parts - truly amazing on HD's part. Being relaxed and alert(ready to react) on your bike will take you far.
I used to think, “if these old geezers can still ride, riding must not actually be that unsafe.” Now I realize those old guys were the ,SMART, young riders and now they’re old (but not dead) 💀
Old school, love it! Please listen to this gentleman. I have always riden on the right side of the lane only because when I got my licence there was only a right hand mirror on cars. Keep em coming!
This is one of the best Beginner videos i've ever seen ! I'm learning to ride right now, unfortunately my last lesson with the driving school ended up with me in the ER so it will be a few weeks before i can get back to it, but i've got a Sportster 883 Iron waiting to get her license plate in the garage, and i can't wait to pass my license exam to take her out for a ride :D Loving the calm tone of your videos, great and clear explanations especially for newbies like me, and i don't know if it's your accent or something, but i much prefer your videos over those of a lot of American guys riding with bare arms and minimal protection 😄
There's something I like a lot from your videos that it's you talking to other riders. This gives perspective and eventually they complement your opinion or say something that is a bit the other way around but still, it's good discussion. I'm a new biker from Brazil (took license in 08/2023) and I have to say... Other bikers craziness is my biggest fear. Taking the corridors is complicated to do and I don't do it with the traffic flowing because some bikers go 60 km/h, others 80 km/h and this is a risk I'm not taking. Great Videos keep it up.
I usually find that, after 45 yrs of (almost) continuous riding, the opinion given is false for most riders. There is a reason we ride, and it is not for keeping up... pay attention and when you're done, park it and drive your car. Very informative video. I hope many riders see it, and take heed.
I've been riding motorcycles for 45+ years, and currently own a chipped, cammed, and dyno'd at 115hp Electra Glide, and a 2016 BMW S1000XR, and I have to admit I've learned a lot since getting my Beemer.
Another great video Aymen , learners ( L platers in Victoria) are not allowed to split .. but awesome advice nonetheless ones those fluids are off learn from those who know ! I’d add take the opportunity to ride with skilled ( or more skilled) riders when ever the time allows 😊
Situational awareness. I try to stay aware of where other vehicles are in front behind and to the sides of me as much as possible so as to know where my escape routes are when I need them. I think you talked about it. Thank you for all these great points. We should never stop learning (and remembering).
40+ years of experience riding dirt/street and I completely agree with everything you've said here. You might consider changing the title of this video to "Top 5 mistakes beginner motorcycle riders make in traffic", much larger audience than just Harley, and all new motorcyclists should hear this information... (Currently riding a 2021 Honda Gold Wing)
Thanks!!! Good points for every rider. An old guy (before I became an old guy) told me a couple of things that have stuck with me. 1) Remember the Lug Nuts Rule - he who has the most lug nuts wins; 2) Before putting on my helmet I recite "I am invisible and everyone else is drunk"; also, flash high beams when coming to a sketchy intersection (DIY headlight modulator); no amount of noisy exhaust or bright colors can overcome a young lady driving along with a cell phone up to her left ear...(I do wear Hi-Viz jacket and white helmet)
Very great points. Thank you for all the sage advices you give and the work you put into spreading a healthy mentality in the motorcycling comunity. Keep up the good work and take care man.
Been riding since 1957 .Drove semis for 33 year's. Still on a bike at 83 ( FLSTF ) I am sure all those years driving big rigs has helped me when it comes to the road sense on my bike.
Aymen, I have issues with lane splitting. First, it is illegal where I live in the ISA, thankfully. Second, my scooter is too wide to get between cars and third, I DO NOT trust the drivers of the cars. Too many of them HATE us and want to eliminate as many as they can. Too many want to open their doors and cause as much damage as possible. Other than that, I love your channel and content.
I'm a truck driver that rides when I can, my wife and i.. she has her own and has been riding most of her life,... I absolutely agree with these top 5. I found that I became a better rider from driving truck. I block more as a truck driver and give the riders an out. Great video. Cheers
most states in the U.S. It's illegal to lane split. one overlooked point. Always leave your bike in gear at a red light. Leave yourself an escape route. look in your mirrors. left foot on the ground, right foot on the brake.
In the UK it isn't illegal and we are taught the opposite in advanced training, left foot on gear, right on the ground... you should be holding the bike with front brake and will need to change gear as you pull away.... try it, saves doing the foot shimmy, much smoother and you can safely be out of gear. Your escape route is right in front of you?
If a “Harley rider” never bought one in the first place, would they still be a Harley rider? I own a KTM 1190 and a 2020 Harley FLHXS and have absolutely zero regrets. I’ve also been riding for 45 years and have raced off road and on as well. This Aussie is spot on.
Lane splitting is not only illegal in all of the states I've lived/ridden in...but HIGHLY RESENTED and will get you intentionally wrecked by jealous cage drivers
Nothing wrong with harleys. They are designed cruisers. I own ducatti street fighter as well and leaning over the tank for 200km is painful lol 😂 each to their own
When i first got my bike, I ran out of gas in the middle lane and thank god the car behind me slowed down, put his hazards on and helped me get to the shoulder. Def dont make it a habit to ride in the middle lane, good advise! Also, make sure you have enough gas/ oil is good & tires are good
Regarding the first “mistake”, beginners don’t always ride over the speed limit because it takes a bit of time to get used to riding the fast. You can’t go from U turns and slaloms in a parking lot to 80mph on the free way overnight.
Great video well explained , the bike night had a great turn out. I by no means a professional, but I ride like all cages are out to get me. Ride hard and ride safe and free brother 👊👊
I'm getting back into riding after not riding since 2012 and in the process of building my 73 Sportster now that my boys are grown.. knowledge is power, being informed is better then assuming! Chance favors the prepared! Always be learning!
Great advice. I found myself onlu becoming more comfort on my ride after i had ten thousand miles in. And that was over 40 years ago. And i expect to be riding another 40. Cheers
I'm not a Harley rider, but great tips in this video. Good on ya for encouraging splitting and filtering. Here in the U.S., not many states allow it, but even at that, many riders are scared of it because they think it's riskier than it is. I like the question: How do you know you're a good rider? You oughta do an entire video on that. Another topic is how to get Harley riders to stop duck walking at slow speed. It's fairly common around here in Florida.
As someone who rides one of the busiest highways in the US often to and from work, I can't stress how important #1 is. I have to avoid getting ran over almost every single time and 90% of the time it's when I'm going the same speed as traffic. I like to keep everyone else moving front to back at least by 5-10 mph. When I do have to slow down I stay out of cagers blind spots and even try to avoid side by side all together if possible.
Further more in my country splitting the lane is legal but many car drivers hate this and turn into drag racing when the light goes green just to brass you off.
Great Vid as always. About your Tips, I address them as protocols 1- In rolling traffic you should be able to avoid other vehicles - In USA, 90% of traffic is over the speed limit. Tactically you have to be ahead of that for defensive driving. Further you must avoid lunatics which approach at twice your speed while they weave and possibly cartwheel and or fishtail while leap frogging in traffic. 2- Lane Splitting - is not common terminology for a motorcar , truck or bus. But Lane Sharing is. Demonstrate how you are willing to share lanes with your motorcycle and just watch how cars will want to do with you the same ( Familiarity breeds contempt) - But frankly, if my air cooled is about to over heat, I will lane split. otherwise, i prefer to be in line like the rest - 3- Riding near the line - on roads as illustrated in your vid, A- If to pass, I will prepare for that pass. or B - stay ( in USA ) to the Far Right of the line. In staying to the far right, on roads as is illustrated, what is oncoming on the other side of an apex is unknown. Further when approaching a hill , what is coming from over the top is also an unknown. Cushion Space, if allowed should reduce the escape issue if the vehicle ahead brake checks, or one approaching from behind out of control .
Passed my bike test a year ago, clock up 1000 miles sinse. Loving the tips. My biggest problem is pins and needles in the hands. Apparently i need to chill. 😅
Older guy told me " ride like your invisible, cause that's how cars treat you" 20 years later he's been correct. Old age and treachery wins out against Houston exhibits every time....
Thank you so much for saying stay away from the cars!!! I hate to see riders do that. Saw a newbie yesterday driving by cars when he had plenty of rode to get going and he had shorts, flip flops, no helmet no gloves and a t-shirt and a cigarette in his mouth..
Most important is space management. Watch the wheels of vehicles setting at a side road. They often dont see you. They just go thru the motion of looking left then right. With big rigs make sure youre in their mirror. Truckers are known for being protective of bikes. But not nearly all of them. No tailgating. Nothing more needs to be said
Cheers! As a NYC bicycle messenger starting in 1979, I learned tons of lessons regarding energy, awareness and my own limitations. Perhaps some viewers think I have nothing of value to share, I do! First a bike is light and other vehicles weigh much more. Stopping and / or changing direction is an art compared to any other vehicle on the road. BTW, I am only speaking about a bike on NYC /Manhattan streets at or below 40 MPH. I always time the lights using the pedestrian countdown. I continually scan 360 degrees because stuff comes from anywhere. I ride as stated a bit faster than traffic to ensure I am visible and NOT on new bike lanes. I have always ridden in the middle of the avenues. No pedestrians. I have so much more but I must eat. Thank you all and BLESS you all. RIDE!!!
Cool vid, great tips. I’m not a Harley rider although I have ridden one. Im mostly a dirt bike guy. I rode dirt bikes on Highways for the last 50 years. For me, it was just a more agile way to get away from idiots, especially since cell phones were invented.
Great advice. Lane splitting is not legal where I live but I'm in a more rural area 90% of the time so it's not needed. Legal or not, I'd do it if needed for my own safety.
I have been riding for 52 years straight and I am still learning the best way to learn how to ride Is taking a safety course like ABATE offers. Keep the dirty side down and the sunnyside up ride smart and safe and my God bless the road you are on
Totally agree on lane positioning to the right. BUT Riders should be aware that a cost of this is vehicles in front blocking your view of junctions to the left AND hiding you from vehicles waiting at that junction - keep well back. 👍
Agree with you on No.1 And learners are not allowed to lane split but this video isn’t for first time beginners like you said. Oil on the road hasn’t been a problem since the ‘80s. I sit just to the right of the middle. The middle has the less pot holes and bumps most of the time. When I was returning I held off installing a phone on the bars cos I didn’t want that distraction which meant inside the wrong way a few times haha learnt quick how to do u turns. I still miss the turn cos I don’t keep a close eye on the phone. Last time was in Canberra I missed the off-ramp so then had to take another route and go past an Indian dealer. Haha
Just got back into riding after a 15+ year break. Picked up a Touring Harley. Before that I only had sportsters or Dyna. So re learning and learning a much bigger bike.
Ok, first let me say, I agree with what you said here. I've been on 2 wheels in one form or another since I was 6 y/o and I'm still learning things. Now here in the US, staying ahead of traffic at a higher speed will get you pulled by the police and ticketed. Lane splitting and filtering is only allowed in a few states here; most states will pull and ticket you. I don't mind getting ticketed but here the more it happens the higher your insurance costs rise.
Hi thanks for another great vid. One maybe to add is in country's where they have a forced winter none rideing season because of weather Presuming there skill set is the same in spring its not ride yourself back in stay safe
It is always good to go back to basics. When I was a beginner on my 250CC ninja. I went for long rides from city to city. I was told by my Godfather that I was crazy, brave and stupid because I ride alone most of the time and I needed to make friends who are more experienced riders. When I started to be friends with very experienced riders after from 3 years of riding. I thought I was very experienced not at all. I realised, I was still a noob who could not handle criticism. Eventually, I got humbled as we all do. From getting older, every ride is a learning experience.
Excellent info use to ride Beemers with my wife but over the years the roads in the UK have become far to dangerous, So its a box on wheels now, Stay safe outthere.
Check out the website for great supporter gear www.oldnotdead.club/shop
Follow me on Instagram @_OldNotDead
Join our community - Old Not Dead Face Book Group facebook.com/groups/oldnotdead
I'm very glad to see some one telling new riders about safety. You need to tell your Viewers about safety course's because they are the best way to learn how to ride and they teach riders on what you are saying
I know in Tennessee lane splitting is illegal so we are forced to be stuck behind automobiles
Harley’s are not good motorcycles
@@noahhamilton1026 see my video, "you don't know anything about motorcycles if you..."
@@OldNotDead-ClubWHAT SONG IS THAT?
Best advice I EVER got was from a motor officer….. he said NEVER think for one minute cars see you. He said ride like your invisible
Right!
💯
That is good advice for driving any vehicle!!
Also the smallest car will still win.... I had determined in my experiences people tend to bunch up in packs.... Sometimes it's easier to let them go on ahead and trail them until it's time to stay ahead of the next pack creeping from behind....
That's all the reason I need to NOT get a motorcycle.
I received my motorcycle license in1967. I am now 73. It was drilled into my brain early on by my elderly motorcyclist neighbor,” as a motorcyclist you ( and only you) are 100 percent responsible for your own well being. The other driver may have been in the wrong, but you will still be dead. Take that responsibility seriously!
It was put to me as ... on a motorcycle you DO NOT have the right away.
How are you responsible for you own safety when some idiot runs a red light and T bones you ??
@@youareIndenial981god damn right. Learned that the hard way. Trying to regain my confidence again. Lady didn’t yield and totaled my drz I now have a sportster 1200
Amen from a 68 year old. 😊
I have a "there's a price on my head and every vehicle on the road is operated by an assasin." Attitude .
My first time leaving my lower population state in USA was to buy my new bike I had never been on a 3 way highway before .... ended up on 4 and 5 lane highways.
My plan.... ride a little faster than everyone and stay on the far left lane which is opposite from on ramp merging traffic here in USA.
Worked. Home alive.
Yes sir. Get away from the traffic and find a spot on the highway by yourself with good vision ahead. You have to see if anything is laying on the road way out there so you have time to miss it.
Thanks
Before you start your bike repeat the following in your head or out loud, " every bastard is out to kill me". Live to ride, love to ride.🏍️🏍️👍👍
LOL...good advice!
Completely right!!
Absolutely 💯
It's my new pre check startup mantra.....
Great points. When I am riding and realize that I am feeling tense, I consciously tell myself to relax... and I ease my grip, relax my arms and do a few side-to-side neck stretches and so on. I realize that if I am feeling tense then I won't be able to flow as quickly and that could spell disaster if I must react quickly to save my life by avoiding an accident. Also, I realize that tension has its roots in how I am thinking, so along with loosening a tight grip and such, I remind myself to enjoy the ride and relax, relax, relax... while remaining alert. Thanks again, especially for your humor.
Thanks for watching and mentioned one of the most important points
My first 2 months riding I had a hard time not getting tense I was recommended to chew gum, keeps you from being so tense, it really helped me out
Great video. I have been riding 14 years, and realized early on that my safety depends on ME! Lots of great points here.
Thank you
Appreciate the video. I've just reached my 70's & still ride a 1992 Harley FLSTF in spite of knee & back surgeries. All the best & stay well !!!
Thanks for the encouragement!
ditto!
Any advice on owning more than one bike; I’m thinking of getting a newer Harley
I just turned 71 and love riding my motorcycle as much as i ever have. Enjoyed your video .
Thank you, way to go!
Bb@@OldNotDead-Club
Great video. Thanks. I'll be 67 next month. I'm in the U.S. Started riding on the street at 16 years old. Took a break from bikes in my mid 20's to raise family. Got back on a HD Road King about 7 years ago and loving it. Enjoy riding and have no problem avoiding the poor drivers while sitting back and letting them demonstrate their madness! I find that most people are still respectful...but not as much as 20 years ago! My main problem has been distracted drivers with phones etc.
"Watch the driver's eyes and front wheels"...really good advice. I'm not a biker, but a cyclist and use this all the time. Very useful advice.
Yep fro t wheels are great indicator,
Thanks
its good advice
Same, I'm a cyclist. If a car is stopped, I always check to see if the driver is looking at me before I ride past in front of them. If they're not paying attention and they decide to take off, I'm a pancake.
That was and is the BEST 1 line piece of advice I was ever given. I live by it.
My favourite RUclips channel. I’ve always had CRANKY Harley’s. I ride aggressively 99% of the time. I’m a very capable rider and do these 5 things. I think riding with purpose and a slight attitude has kept me out of trouble and kept the love of riding alive for over 35 years…..
Thanks very much and great point about the attitude keeping you out of trouble
I have been ridding motorcycles for more than 50 years. These are 5 brilliant pieces of advise that many seasoned riders never learn. Lane splitting is illegal in some states so be careful. Older bikers don't stop riding, they downgrade. The only people that knock Harley's are those that have never owned one. Well done mate.
Thanks, appreciated
It' illegal in every state but Commiefornia!
I agree. It’s illegal here in Atlanta as well. Also agree about the ones who’ve never owned a Harley
Lane splitting is asking for trouble. And yes, it's illegal everywhere except California. There are several good reasons why it's illegal. I might be wrong, but I believe the huge traffic backups and the likelihood of bikes and riders overheating are a consideration I'm California. Please correct me if I am wrong. Secondly, this notion of riding faster than traffic is misleading. Overtaking vehicles to find a spot with room around you (front, back, and side) and settling in and maintaining a good following distance will save your life and save you from speeding tickets. Of course, conditions change, and you'll have to adjust.
@@chuckwagon1892I really feel like this guy is just a 🤡 trying sound like he knows what he's talking about. I thought this video was satire at first then realized he was serious. Are you kidding me?
Great points especially the first one. You don't ever want to blend in with traffic. Also be aware when taking off first at traffic lights. I had a near miss once when a car ran a red light luckily I had taken off late that time and was able to see him and stop. That late second saved me.
Eyes open on the look out for Vehicles in front by sides and behind you to fast you lose reaction time to slow you may get ran over. Ride your own ride and not driver's
As I ride alone frequently, I’ve developed a chaos style of riding. I change lane position frequently. I “shake” the bike on occasion. I make it look like I don’t know what I’m doing. I make it look like I might do something “insane” at any time. I find that cars behind me pay more attention to me and don’t really want to be around me. It’s a kind of virtual buffer zone.
lol as funny as that sounds I do this too (similar)sometimes and it does work
I do the same, aim my headlight to the car mirrors in front of me and keep moving a bit to not dissapear in static......
I’ve been riding for 50 years and you will never convince me that splitting lanes is NOt a safety issue. I’ve seen a number of times where car drivers will even try to squeeze you out.
Lane splitting is illegal in Many States, and will get you hurt, killed, or when a cop sees you do it, you will recieve a CNI citation, & lose 3 points off of your liscense
I agree I don't have 50 years of experience but I also think it ABSOLUTELY pisses people off and gives off an elitist " I AM BETTER THEN YOU" Attitude. Which most folks take issue with.
squeezed at low speed or rear ended sitting idk man🤷
Called "filtering" in the UK. I did it on a BMW I had just bought, forgot I had panniers, oops! My Road glide is too wide most of the time and I can't be bothered with blasting away from the lights... been there, done it, go the T-shirt!
I agree it’s legal here in Texas and I still don’t do it I enjoy my life 😊
I always take this with me when I ride. Search, identify, prodict and deside is what I was thought. Defensive driving. Always think that someone will do something stupid when your riding.
Thank you so much for your fantastic videos.
Thanks that's appreciated
G'day, 1st time on this page, yes I've liked and subscribed. I ride a naked, BMW S1000R, 2016 Model. I've rode on the road at 16, 9months, P's 2 weeks after L's. I'm now 61 and still love riding. I find your channel, informative, great humour, and an all-around positive love of 2 wheels, what ever breed they may be. Cheers to you, the old but not dead, I feel comfortable listening to what you have to offer, as I've always said, you can never be too old to learn something new!
Annie 🇦🇺👍🏽👌🏽🔥😎
Thanks Annie awesome bike you are riding
Valuable lessons learnd here. I never trust anything on 4 wheels. Trying all the time to get away from them as fast as possible.
Great advice, hard to ride faster than traffic here in Montreal Canada, where average driver usually drives 15 to 20 km, over the limit already
Here the berbers do also in holland
Stay away from other drivers as much as possible.Most people are not thinking on the road. Get the hell out of my way
Thanks and spot on
I agree that you need to keep a safe distance from traffic, but the throttle is not the only way to achieve it. Everyone cannot be faster than everyone else. Mathematically impossible. Handy gadgets also hanging from the handlebars: Mirrors. Use them. Find your space in traffic and keep it. Senseless to chase everything in front of you
You have to ride Defensively treat cars and trucks with respect. Treat all vehicles at intersections like they may pull out on you be prepared to take action
@@thomassmith5291Spot on. I make cars pass me when I don’t like the way they are driving. I move over to get them in front of me.
Not thinking or paying attention. It's disturbing how many people I see with their heads down looking at their phones while driving.
Well done. The saftey chats make people think.
I would add failing to do slow speed practice so use can u turn at full lock. This increases your skill level faster.
Yep that's a good one
Nothing beats gut instinct and common sense. Good advice, thanks
Agree, on 2,3 etc. wheels, always know your out. It might be the inside shoulder or the outside, hell it might even be the grass. Anticipate everybody making that ONE big mistake. Just always know your out.
Good points, practice emergency braking as much as you can to be comfortable with it. People who are not any good at this are the ones you see throwing their feet out when they panic trying to stop very quickly. It's a skill you need and practice makes perfect.
Thanks great point
Every ride you should practice an emergency stop using both brakes.
I'm 58 and only been riding for about 6 years. Good video however lane splitting scares the crap out of me, I probably won't be doing that.
Re: 3 Position , As a rule of thumb I’ll make sure that I can see the drivers face in their mirror IF I have to ride behind them , so they’ll have a better chance of knowing I’m there
Great point
Your advice applies not only to Harley drivers. I have been doing those things since the beginning. That is how you become an hold biker. Keep on the good work… ✌🏻
Well said! Thank you
A very dear friend of mine once told me when I started out riding motorcycles, 'in the first 5 years of riding the likelihood of crashing where you break a bone is over 90%, after that it drops to less than 10%.' Boy oh boy was he right. Almost 5 years to the day I had a crash and broke my arm and spent 2 weeks in the hospital. That was 1993. Baggy died this past January. He was a day shy of his 60th birthday. I really miss my friend 😢
I grew up on a dirt bike. Loved riding baja in Saudi Arabia back in the 80s. In riding my '21 Road Glide these days, I have been in two situations where my dirt bike riding skills kicked in. Was surprised how well the bike handled when having to stop to avoid a collision. More over, loved the way the bike handled when a timber was thrown(cement truck) in front of my bike. I went over the timber at 70 mph and achieved flight. LOL Lost both tires and wheels but not a scratch on the bike. Harley Davidson helped me with those parts - truly amazing on HD's part. Being relaxed and alert(ready to react) on your bike will take you far.
I used to think, “if these old geezers can still ride, riding must not actually be that unsafe.” Now I realize those old guys were the ,SMART, young riders and now they’re old (but not dead) 💀
very wise words
There old riders and bold riders but no old bold riders 😊
Try it this way. Old riders with helmets, young riders without helmets. Darwin wins.😅
Survivor Bias
There's a lot of old guys that are beginner riders as well.
Old school, love it! Please listen to this gentleman. I have always riden on the right side of the lane only because when I got my licence there was only a right hand mirror on cars. Keep em coming!
This CAT is Straight RIGHT ON.!!! On Everything!!
Thank you
This is one of the best Beginner videos i've ever seen !
I'm learning to ride right now, unfortunately my last lesson with the driving school ended up with me in the ER so it will be a few weeks before i can get back to it, but i've got a Sportster 883 Iron waiting to get her license plate in the garage, and i can't wait to pass my license exam to take her out for a ride :D
Loving the calm tone of your videos, great and clear explanations especially for newbies like me, and i don't know if it's your accent or something, but i much prefer your videos over those of a lot of American guys riding with bare arms and minimal protection 😄
13:45 had me laughing pretty good!!! I ride WORSE the slower I'm going, BECAUSE IT'S JUST SO FING BORING!!! 😂🤘
Lol, thanks for watching
There's something I like a lot from your videos that it's you talking to other riders. This gives perspective and eventually they complement your opinion or say something that is a bit the other way around but still, it's good discussion. I'm a new biker from Brazil (took license in 08/2023) and I have to say... Other bikers craziness is my biggest fear. Taking the corridors is complicated to do and I don't do it with the traffic flowing because some bikers go 60 km/h, others 80 km/h and this is a risk I'm not taking. Great Videos keep it up.
Great video mate. I specially agree with your first, you bit of buffer between you and cars. 10-25 km/hr faster make big difference.
Thanks
I usually find that, after 45 yrs of (almost) continuous riding, the opinion given is false for most riders. There is a reason we ride, and it is not for keeping up... pay attention and when you're done, park it and drive your car. Very informative video. I hope many riders see it, and take heed.
He says "Ride faster than the traffic" and the Officer's first question will be "What's your hurry?".
I’m a show him this video
@@TOBGjayloneLOOL
Officer I'm in a hurry to get away from all these cages trying to kill me.. lol
Yeah I was really trying to figure out if this guy was serious when he started saying stuff like that.
Aussie is a moron. Don't listen to his crap; he will get you into trouble.
I've been riding motorcycles for 45+ years, and currently own a chipped, cammed, and dyno'd at 115hp Electra Glide, and a 2016 BMW S1000XR, and I have to admit I've learned a lot since getting my Beemer.
Thanks
Another great video Aymen , learners ( L platers in Victoria) are not allowed to split .. but awesome advice nonetheless ones those fluids are off learn from those who know !
I’d add take the opportunity to ride with skilled ( or more skilled) riders when ever the time allows 😊
Thanks Karyn
Situational awareness. I try to stay aware of where other vehicles are in front behind and to the sides of me as much as possible so as to know where my escape routes are when I need them. I think you talked about it.
Thank you for all these great points. We should never stop learning (and remembering).
40+ years of experience riding dirt/street and I completely agree with everything you've said here.
You might consider changing the title of this video to "Top 5 mistakes beginner motorcycle riders make in traffic", much larger audience than just Harley, and all new motorcyclists should hear this information...
(Currently riding a 2021 Honda Gold Wing)
Thanks!!! Good points for every rider. An old guy (before I became an old guy) told me a couple of things that have stuck with me. 1) Remember the
Lug Nuts Rule - he who has the most lug nuts wins; 2) Before putting on my helmet I recite "I am invisible and everyone else is drunk"; also, flash high beams when coming to a sketchy intersection (DIY headlight modulator); no amount of noisy exhaust or bright colors can overcome a young lady driving along with a cell phone up to her left ear...(I do wear Hi-Viz jacket and white helmet)
Some really good points there. Lane splitting and keeping away from traffic are things I do when riding. Well done mate 👏
Thanks 👍
Very great points. Thank you for all the sage advices you give and the work you put into spreading a healthy mentality in the motorcycling comunity. Keep up the good work and take care man.
Confucius say…
listen to this man, him very wise and tan!!!
Lol thanks
Been riding since 1957 .Drove semis for 33 year's. Still on a bike at 83 ( FLSTF ) I am sure all those years driving big rigs has helped me when it comes to the road sense on my bike.
Right with ya. Still part time OTR.....
@@ronmeadors6867 keep on trucking. I miss it.
Aymen, I have issues with lane splitting. First, it is illegal where I live in the ISA, thankfully. Second, my scooter is too wide to get between cars and third, I DO NOT trust the drivers of the cars. Too many of them HATE us and want to eliminate as many as they can. Too many want to open their doors and cause as much damage as possible. Other than that, I love your channel and content.
I would have thought a scooter is much narrower than a SG but you only should do what you are comfortable with.
Well, I’ve always called my motorcycles, scooters. I have a ‘16 fatboy low. SG?
Never mind. SG. Street glide. Duh
@@boblindakroon8051 lol, whoops i took scooter literally.
I'm a truck driver that rides when I can, my wife and i.. she has her own and has been riding most of her life,... I absolutely agree with these top 5. I found that I became a better rider from driving truck. I block more as a truck driver and give the riders an out. Great video. Cheers
Thank you
most states in the U.S. It's illegal to lane split. one overlooked point. Always leave your bike in gear at a red light. Leave yourself an escape route. look in your mirrors. left foot on the ground, right foot on the brake.
Great tip thank you
In the UK it isn't illegal and we are taught the opposite in advanced training, left foot on gear, right on the ground... you should be holding the bike with front brake and will need to change gear as you pull away.... try it, saves doing the foot shimmy, much smoother and you can safely be out of gear. Your escape route is right in front of you?
Thx for your advice on lane splitting i have to practice that ive been hesitant about it now your advice has given me confidence
Not safe , lane splitting
I have never lane split. Too unsure about what those cars may do!
Biggest mistake a Harley rider can make? Buying one in the first place.
lol see my video, "you don't know anything about motorcycles if you..."
Dumb, just dumb.
If a “Harley rider” never bought one in the first place, would they still be a Harley rider? I own a KTM 1190 and a 2020 Harley FLHXS and have absolutely zero regrets. I’ve also been riding for 45 years and have raced off road and on as well. This Aussie is spot on.
Lane splitting is not only illegal in all of the states I've lived/ridden in...but HIGHLY RESENTED and will get you intentionally wrecked by jealous cage drivers
Just randomly came across this channel. Good content mate, great stuff! Keep it up!
Much appreciated! Thanks.
First mistake? Buying a Harley.....
yes it's been said. Watch my video, "you don't know anything about motorcycles if you..."
I agree big mistake buying an outdated dinosaur HD , massive engines with the equivalent HP of a sewer machine 😂
90% are still on the road
Only 10% made it home
Nothing wrong with harleys. They are designed cruisers. I own ducatti street fighter as well and leaning over the tank for 200km is painful lol 😂 each to their own
Only bad thing about a Harley is the exorbitant price of them ...ridiculous!
When i first got my bike, I ran out of gas in the middle lane and thank god the car behind me slowed down, put his hazards on and helped me get to the shoulder. Def dont make it a habit to ride in the middle lane, good advise! Also, make sure you have enough gas/ oil is good & tires are good
Regarding the first “mistake”, beginners don’t always ride over the speed limit because it takes a bit of time to get used to riding the fast. You can’t go from U turns and slaloms in a parking lot to 80mph on the free way overnight.
Very true thank you
Another great video Old ! Alway a good idea to revisit the basics. Every ride is a combat patrol. Look for the ambush.
Thanks 👍
“Not what to do about the beginners, what to do about the mistakes!” Had me rolling with laughter 😅
Great video well explained , the bike night had a great turn out. I by no means a professional, but I ride like all cages are out to get me. Ride hard and ride safe and free brother 👊👊
Thank you - stay safe
Great video and good advice. Greetings from a fellow Harley rider from north Mississippi U.S.A !
Thank you and a big hello from across the world
I'm getting back into riding after not riding since 2012 and in the process of building my 73 Sportster now that my boys are grown.. knowledge is power, being informed is better then assuming! Chance favors the prepared! Always be learning!
Great advice. I found myself onlu becoming more comfort on my ride after i had ten thousand miles in. And that was over 40 years ago. And i expect to be riding another 40. Cheers
I'm not a Harley rider, but great tips in this video. Good on ya for encouraging splitting and filtering. Here in the U.S., not many states allow it, but even at that, many riders are scared of it because they think it's riskier than it is. I like the question: How do you know you're a good rider? You oughta do an entire video on that. Another topic is how to get Harley riders to stop duck walking at slow speed. It's fairly common around here in Florida.
Thanks both great ideas they are in the list
No matter how experience you are you can still always learn something new
As someone who rides one of the busiest highways in the US often to and from work, I can't stress how important #1 is. I have to avoid getting ran over almost every single time and 90% of the time it's when I'm going the same speed as traffic. I like to keep everyone else moving front to back at least by 5-10 mph. When I do have to slow down I stay out of cagers blind spots and even try to avoid side by side all together if possible.
Thank you
This was great advice. i think about what you have said in this video every time i ride now
Thanks for watching, appreciated
Further more in my country splitting the lane is legal but many car drivers hate this and turn into drag racing when the light goes green just to brass you off.
I like the 5 steps you have there but lane splitting is illegal in some areas like where I live but good job
Great Vid as always. About your Tips, I address them as protocols
1- In rolling traffic you should be able to avoid other vehicles - In USA, 90% of traffic is over the speed limit. Tactically you have to be ahead of that for defensive driving. Further you must avoid lunatics which approach at twice your speed while they weave and possibly cartwheel and or fishtail while leap frogging in traffic.
2- Lane Splitting - is not common terminology for a motorcar , truck or bus. But Lane Sharing is. Demonstrate how you are willing to share lanes with your motorcycle and just watch how cars will want to do with you the same ( Familiarity breeds contempt) - But frankly, if my air cooled is about to over heat, I will lane split. otherwise, i prefer to be in line like the rest -
3- Riding near the line - on roads as illustrated in your vid, A- If to pass, I will prepare for that pass. or B - stay ( in USA ) to the Far Right of the line. In staying to the far right, on roads as is illustrated, what is oncoming on the other side of an apex is unknown. Further when approaching a hill , what is coming from over the top is also an unknown. Cushion Space, if allowed should reduce the escape issue if the vehicle ahead brake checks, or one approaching from behind out of control .
Good advice mate, staying focused in traffic, watching out for red light runners are essential. Like your channel so I subscribed 🏍️👍🏻🇦🇺
Passed my bike test a year ago, clock up 1000 miles sinse. Loving the tips. My biggest problem is pins and needles in the hands. Apparently i need to chill. 😅
yeah maybe hanging on too tight? Depends on the bike and the seating position, lots of variables
Older guy told me " ride like your invisible, cause that's how cars treat you" 20 years later he's been correct. Old age and treachery wins out against Houston exhibits every time....
Youth and exuberance.... Damn autocorrect
Thank you so much for saying stay away from the cars!!! I hate to see riders do that. Saw a newbie yesterday driving by cars when he had plenty of rode to get going and he had shorts, flip flops, no helmet no gloves and a t-shirt and a cigarette in his mouth..
Most important is space management. Watch the wheels of vehicles setting at a side road. They often dont see you. They just go thru the motion of looking left then right.
With big rigs make sure youre in their mirror. Truckers are known for being protective of bikes. But not nearly all of them.
No tailgating. Nothing more needs to be said
Cheers! As a NYC bicycle messenger starting in 1979, I learned tons of lessons regarding energy, awareness and my own limitations. Perhaps some viewers think I have nothing of value to share, I do! First a bike is light and other vehicles weigh much more. Stopping and / or changing direction is an art compared to any other vehicle on the road. BTW, I am only speaking about a bike on NYC /Manhattan streets at or below 40 MPH.
I always time the lights using the pedestrian countdown. I continually scan 360 degrees because stuff comes from anywhere. I ride as stated a bit faster than traffic to ensure I am visible and NOT on new bike lanes. I have always ridden in the middle of the avenues. No pedestrians. I have so much more but I must eat. Thank you all and BLESS you all. RIDE!!!
Be in the moment and never force yourself to ride. If doesnt feel right, dont ride. Nice work and greetings from the Mother country😁
I am an old timer, great advice!! except I have never split lanes and never will...... too scary for this old Harley rider.
Nothing wrong with that and many will agree with you, ride safe
Great video and info!! I would love to ride with your group down under!! Looks just like a bike night in California!
Thanks
Looks like a bike night in ATLANTA as well
Chilling, informative and cool made. Thanks!
@Oldnotdead. I appreciate the video mate. I am getting near 60, definitely qualifying for, “old not dead”, and I still find your tips useful.
Thank you very much
Cool vid, great tips. I’m not a Harley rider although I have ridden one. Im mostly a dirt bike guy. I rode dirt bikes on Highways for the last 50 years. For me, it was just a more agile way to get away from idiots, especially since cell phones were invented.
😎👍
Big thumbs up for the channel...
I wish I could lane split in Oklahoma...
Great advice. Lane splitting is not legal where I live but I'm in a more rural area 90% of the time so it's not needed. Legal or not, I'd do it if needed for my own safety.
Thanks for watching
I love this channel.! Cool mate :) !
Appreciate the support!
I have been riding for 52 years straight and I am still learning the best way to learn how to ride Is taking a safety course like ABATE offers. Keep the dirty side down and the sunnyside up ride smart and safe and my God bless the road you are on
Totally agree on lane positioning to the right.
BUT
Riders should be aware that a cost of this is vehicles in front blocking your view of junctions to the left AND hiding you from vehicles waiting at that junction - keep well back. 👍
Agree with you on No.1
And learners are not allowed to lane split but this video isn’t for first time beginners like you said.
Oil on the road hasn’t been a problem since the ‘80s. I sit just to the right of the middle. The middle has the less pot holes and bumps most of the time.
When I was returning I held off installing a phone on the bars cos I didn’t want that distraction which meant inside the wrong way a few times haha learnt quick how to do u turns. I still miss the turn cos I don’t keep a close eye on the phone. Last time was in Canberra I missed the off-ramp so then had to take another route and go past an Indian dealer. Haha
Oil is still a problem here
@@OldNotDead-Clubnot in vic and nsw etc where I have ridden. Mostly country riding though.
@@Peteslife I should have cleared up - its mainly around intersections
@@PeteslifeOil isn’t a problem until it suddenly is. Then you’re usually fucked.
The Spiderman suit is badass. The woman's bike is beautiful. It's awesome to seevbike culture in other parts of the world. Great advice throughout.
Thank you
Always a good bit of advice. Thanks man
Thanks for watching
Just found your channel. Good and accurate info. Subded
Thanks and welcome
Just got back into riding after a 15+ year break. Picked up a Touring Harley. Before that I only had sportsters or Dyna. So re learning and learning a much bigger bike.
Yes! I am always trying to get away from clusters of cars on the road. It's definitely safer away from traffic.
Ok, first let me say, I agree with what you said here. I've been on 2 wheels in one form or another since I was 6 y/o and I'm still learning things. Now here in the US, staying ahead of traffic at a higher speed will get you pulled by the police and ticketed. Lane splitting and filtering is only allowed in a few states here; most states will pull and ticket you. I don't mind getting ticketed but here the more it happens the higher your insurance costs rise.
Another ripper video, I reckon that bloke on the Ducati would be quick on his Harley 😜
Lol he is quick on his HD, I was just getting a laugh
Hi thanks for another great vid. One maybe to add is in country's where they have a forced winter none rideing season because of weather
Presuming there skill set is the same in spring its not ride yourself back in stay safe
Love your channel you ever get over the pond come to the Kentucky Derby good time and great riding
Thank you - will do
It's a shame Louisville Downs sits in the middle of a ghetto. Just like Yale and Augusta National...
It is always good to go back to basics. When I was a beginner on my 250CC ninja. I went for long rides from city to city. I was told by my Godfather that I was crazy, brave and stupid because I ride alone most of the time and I needed to make friends who are more experienced riders. When I started to be friends with very experienced riders after from 3 years of riding. I thought I was very experienced not at all. I realised, I was still a noob who could not handle criticism. Eventually, I got humbled as we all do. From getting older, every ride is a learning experience.
Excellent info use to ride Beemers with my wife but over the years the roads in the UK have become far to dangerous, So its a box on wheels now, Stay safe outthere.
Dude you didn't really think that woman was going to say anything else? Another helpful video thanks dude.
Lol