Riding Academy Series Part 2: Got My License
By Coach Brad Jennings
You took the class and got your license. It was a huge rush, as you are very new to this motorcycle riding thing. The adrenaline rush is real, and you bought your first bike. Now what?
Start slow
Take some smaller steps before you get out there and run. Ride around your neighborhood – even around the block. Take short rides close to home to build up your confidence. Work on the things you learned in class: Using the friction zone, controlled braking, turns. You can do all of this on some initial short rides.
Practice, practice, practice
Find a nice parking lot near you and ride there to practice. Work on shifting gears, do some U-turns, ride around in circles – all of it will help you get used to your motorcycle and more comfortable and confident handling it. There is no such thing as too much practice.
Get out in traffic slowly
Once you are feeling comfortable, pick a destination across town and ride there. That will get you some real-life experience in traffic. Remember to make yourself as visible as possible to drivers. Be aware of what drivers around you are doing. Learn to anticipate what others will do to keep yourself out of unsafe situations.
In the country
One of the great things about our area is the country roads. Go south, north or west and the country roads are fantastic. Beautiful scenery, riding curvy roads next to a river, wide open farm lands and fields. These rides will help make you one with your motorcycle. This is when you will really feel the freedom of riding.
On the highway
If and when you feel ready to get on the highway, pick a short stretch to try first. I am talking a couple of miles maximum to start. Learn to handle riding at those higher speeds and get used to the speed of vehicles around you. It can make anyone a bit nervous at first, but, again, practice will bring confidence.
The important thing is to do all of this at your own pace. Ride your own ride. Slowly build your skills and you will be a more confident, safe rider. And if you ever need any help or just want to ask questions, we are here for you!