Whether you are a new motorcycle rider, or an experienced rider looking to brush up on the basics, you came to the right place. Whatever your experience level, the following tips from Freedom Golf Carts can boost your confidence as a motorcycle rider, and help you steer clear of common mistakes that can lead to accidents.
If you have any questions or need more advice, feel free to contact us! Freedom Golf Carts is your destination for motorcycles and more in Littleton, CO.
Braking
Mastering the skill of braking is essential for new motorcycle riders. If you are familiar with driving a car, you will find that braking on a motorcycle is a somewhat different experience. With only two wheels, most of the braking power is concentrated in the front wheel. Proper braking is mostly a matter of speed and timing, and you can develop a feel for it by practicing on a straight, empty roadway. Try braking at different speeds to get a sense of the timing, and remember to hold the clutch as you decelerate.
Turning
Countersteering is the key technique for executing turns on a motorcycle. This method involves steering away from the intended direction of the turn as you approach a corner while shifting your body weight in the desired direction. Although it may seem counterintuitive on paper, it feels natural in practice. The secret lies in maintaining a steady position and staying on course as you move through the turn. With practice, you will learn how to determine the precise speed and direction you should aim for when making a turn.
Shifting Gears
Most motorcycles are equipped with manual transmissions, and selecting the right gear will make the difference between a smooth ride and a bumpy one. If you already have experience driving a car with a manual transmission, you will have a head start on this learning curve. There are no quick fixes here: learning how and when to shift gears is largely a matter of trial and error. That means you will need plenty of time to practice.
An empty parking lot serves as the perfect training ground. Starting with lower speeds, look for the sweet spot for each gear on your motorcycle. Determine how to upshift in a way that provides smooth, consistent acceleration, and practice downshifting as you gradually decelerate. You might encounter some challenges at first, but once you master the art of gear shifting, it will become second nature.
We hope you found this guide helpful! If you need more tips on motorcycle riding, the team here at Freedom Golf Carts is always available to answer your questions. We welcome customers from all over the Denver metropolitan area at our dealership in Littleton, CO.