motowebmaster

Here are some pointers for new riders:

1. Stop by several dealerships, don't get too focused on just one brand or type of motorcycle right away. Actual preferences change for many riders after their first bike.
2. Depending on your state's laws, it may be easy to meet the requirements for permit/license status, but recommended to take a basic rider safety course beforehand.
3. Rider Safety Instruction is best provided by a professional trainer, the most common being Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) courses. Riding a motorcycle isn't difficult, but it takes instruction to learn how to react to real-world scenarios. It's better to put down a training bike in a parking lot if it helps you learn how to react on your own bike on the road.
4. Your first motorcycle should be relatively comfortable and easy to control in average riding circumstances. Is it a bike that you can easily ride on a short errand or casual trip? As you've likely heard already, buying your dream motorcycle is not recommended as a first bike.
5. A significant number of riders get their license with one type of bike in their heads, and change preferences later after gaining some experience on the road. This is another reason to not go for your dream bike at first. Instead, consider a smaller version of the same motorcycle type. For example cruiser enthusiasts may want to consider a used Sportster, Shadow, or V-Star. Buell, Triumph, and Suzuki make good standards aimed at new riders.
6. Although many members of Motorcycles International ride either very high performance Sportbike, or Sport-Touring machines, it is not advisable to make this your first bike. If you must go this route there are some 200-250cc engine alternatives that are fun to ride; but still take practice to run on the street. Sport-Touring Motorcycles are usually heavier bikes, but even the lighter alternatives can be expensive to repair. In general, avoid heavy high-performance new bikes until you've got at least a year's experience.
7. Learning to ride represents a development of several skills, and how you react to the world around you.
8. Have a plan for accidents or mechanical breakdowns. Some dealers may be able to offer options. The best practice is to subscribe to a comprehensive Roadside Assistance Program, and carry a mobile phone with you. A first aid kit, electrical tape, and some tools doesn't hurt either.
9. Protective Gear is a choice, not an indicator of the type of rider you are. While we don't favor mandatory laws, it is advisable for new riders to wear protection when starting out until some experience has been obtained on the road. Gloves, Helmet, Eye Protection, Jacket, and Boots with no loose laces.
10. Wear Earplugs designed for motorcylists.

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Shawn
My Photos

Speedtrip

I'd say it is advisable for new and veteran riders to wear gear. The longer I ride the more gear I wear, it HURTS getting off a bike the hard way. No matter how skilled a rider you are there are to many things that you have no control over on the street. Everyone has their own level of risk they are willing to accept but I cringe every time I see a girl on the back of a bike with shorts and a tank top on. If these people new what it felt like to go skidding down the road they might think twice.

End gear rant.

This thread does beg the question; Well what bike should I get first?

There are tons of good beginner bikes depending on taste and use. However IMHO the SV650 is the best bang for the buck a new rider can get. I know they quit making the standard this year but they are easy to come by and inexpensive. They are light torquey bikes that won't intimidate the noob but you won't soon outgrow either. They have tons of aftermarket parts for these bikes and are easy to work on. I am biased since there has been one in my garage for many years now and don't plan on getting rid of it any time soon.

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-Shaun-

motowebmaster

The words of an old-school Triumph/BMW Mechanic - "it's cheaper to buy her leather"

The Prophet

When my son recently graduated from College, we were able to get him a quick job with my Son-in-Law, who has a Suzuki Dealership. He did their website design work, general chores, stocked display shelfs, and also did oil and filter changes. He was only there for about 3 months, until he found something more applicable to his field of study.

Anyway, one of the salesmen (since fired) who was about 40ish told him "Wearing a Helmet and Safety Gear screams out 'Newbie, newbie'", so you shouldn't wear them.

When my son relayed this to me, I told him never to take advice from someone who doesn't have enough sense to wear head protection while hurtling through space at 70 miles an hour.

Actually, I've found the exact opposite to be true. Riders who have done track time, and have experience in racing almost always wear protective gear on the street, as they know better from actual experience and exposure.

Another point would be to not try to "keep up" with more experienced riders, until you feel totally comfortable. Anyone who would ridicule or goad a new rider into going faster, or harder through turns in public for their own entertainment would definitely be a poser, or inexperienced squid type rider hisself.

Wear proper gear, and ride at your own level.

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• A good traveler has no fixed plans, and is not intent on arriving. ~Lao Tzu
• Motorcyles are not my whole life, but they make my life whole. ` me