Riding Academy Series Part 3: Before the Ride
By Coach Brad Jennings
After some small rides close to home, you are now ready to go out and get some experience on the road. You are geared up, excited, nervous and ready to get some miles under your belt.
But before you do, there are a few steps you need to follow.
Is my bike ready to ride?
Remember T-CLOCS from class? These are things you need to check on your bike before you ride: Tires and wheels, controls (levers and pedals, cables, hoses), lights and mirrors, oil and other fluids, chassis (suspension, belt), and stands. Make sure your motorcycle is ready for the road.
Mindset
Am I focused? Am I calm? Do I have a clear head? You want to make sure you are emotionally ready to ride and well rested. Riding a motorcycle is a physical and mental activity, so you need to be at your best.
Gear
Do you have all of your gear, and is it in good riding shape? Make sure you are protected before you head out - boots, helmet, eye protection, riding jacket and gloves. It is always better to wear too much gear, rather than too little.
Weather
Finally, how is the weather looking? If there is rain coming, don’t forget your rain gear. Cold front moving in later? That is why you have heated gear if needed. Plan your route accordingly so you don’t get surprised by the weather or any road construction. Planning ahead can make the ride so much more fun.
Now get out there!