New Rider Tips

[inspiron]

Wookie ... what kind of technique is that?

Brake, downshift, then lean ... in that order. Once you're in the turn, you shouldn't be shifting while hanging off (unless you are on the track, in which case you would reverse the gearbox to 1-up 5-down).

[Motorcycle Forum]

[wookie]

yep. on track, sometimes I redline in the middle of a corner and find myself needing to get on a higher gear to go faster.

[deathbybowtie]

Along the lines of the #3 point about city driving on that first list, a tip my parents gave me when I first started thinking about getting a bike was: "Always ride like you're invisible." It's very easy for a lot of people to not see motorcycles, so pretending that absolutely no one can see you is a good way to prevent a lot of incidents.

[Zurich]

Know what gear your are in, your speed, and revs, at all times - without looking at your instuments.

Practice driving the speed limit in city traffic, use your blinkers. Practice on round abouts (in little traffic), be extra careful when "cutting in line", some motorist hate that, and try to run you down when the light turns green.

[jfisher]

I'm 38 and looking for my first true street bike. I have riden ATV's and dirtbikes for most of my life. I have been riding a Burgman 650 for the last two years and am looking to move up. Any of you guys have suggestions. I am drawn to the liter bikes, but am wondering if a 600 would be enough. I've taken the MSF course and am comfortable on a bike and scooter. I'm considering an FZ1and FZ6 as well as a BMW 800ST. Can you throw some suggestions my way. jef

[Davecm203]

Wookie ... what kind of technique is that?

Brake, downshift, then lean ... in that order. Once you're in the turn, you shouldn't be shifting while hanging off (unless you are on the track, in which case you would reverse the gearbox to 1-up 5-down).

Yes, you would need to reverse the shifter. There usually is not room to up shift if you don't. I have gotten my foot caught between the shifter and the road a couple of times. I don't track day enough to change it and have to get used to it, so I just either go in a gear higher or just hold the gear until I start to straighten up.

[Tuck_a_da_Phil]

Yes, you would need to reverse the shifter. There usually is not room to up shift if you don't. I have gotten my foot caught between the shifter and the road a couple of times. I don't track day enough to change it and have to get used to it, so I just either go in a gear higher or just hold the gear until I start to straighten up.

I have a friend who wrecked his bike while he had his foot under the shifter (wearing tennis shoes) and now he only has 7 toes.

[poorboysspot]

I agree first things first it is really important to have your safety gear.

[frostbitevinnie]

Zombie ditto dude!