7 useful tips for new motorcycle drivers

1. Drive according to your skill level

Only ride a bike that is appropriate to your level of riding skill to ensure safety. Experienced riders can ride fast, weave through crowds, and control the bike on curves, but that doesn’t mean you should try to do the same when you’re new to riding.

Take the time to practice your skills, allowing yourself to drive in situations that are within your capabilities. Of course, you can still challenge yourself to practice, but do it safely and in a controlled manner.

2. Avoid distractions

If you ride a motorcycle, eliminate all distractions, including wearing a headset and keeping your phone out of reach. Remember that motorcycles are harder for motorists to see, especially large vehicles like trucks. Motorists need to see them before they see you.

3. Look twice when participating in traffic

Since motorcycles are less visible than cars, this is a rule to follow when participating in traffic. Don't rely on cars to see you, it's best to keep a safe distance from cars. Look twice before changing lanes or pulling over to the side of the road to avoid unnecessary accidents.

4. Trusted Companion

Make sure your passenger is properly equipped and mentally stable. New riders often get dizzy when the motorcycle turns, leaning against the rider, which throws the bike off balance. Adding the weight and height of a passenger in the back will change the balance, especially at slow speeds.

If you want to move your body, tell the person behind you to do it while you are stopped.

5. Keep a safe distance

One of the most careless things drivers do is not keep a safe distance from other vehicles. In an emergency, hard braking can cause the driver to lose control due to the wheels locking up, the vehicle can fall and throw the driver off the road.

The best advice is to keep a sufficient distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front, always trying to keep an escape route (e.g. the shoulder of the road) in case you cannot stop in time.

6. Use appropriate protective equipment

Important areas of the body that need to be protected in case of a fall or skid on the road are the spine, torso, shoulders and elbows. There are many protective equipment for motorcyclists - a strong protective plate in the above positions to protect the wearer.

When riding a motorbike, choosing the right shoes is also very important. If you wear flip-flops, your feet will not be protected, and they can easily slip and cause dangerous situations. Therefore, you should choose shoes with ankle support and low soles to help you maintain balance and control the vehicle; you can find shoes/boots with durable materials such as leather for the best protection.

7. Take a safe driving course

By taking a safety re-learning course, you will gain the necessary driving knowledge, helping you to be more confident when participating in traffic. The instructors will also provide you with some advice on motorcycle maintenance and maintenance and how to avoid emergency situations.

Most motorcycle manufacturers offer safety classes. This is a great opportunity to learn more about their bikes, and you may even get a chance to try out some of their newer models.