Riding Tips For The New Motorcycle/Gas Scooter Rider
By Dennis McCartney
CBXManMotorcycles.com
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Our number one suggestion is to take the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) class if it is offered in your area. We have shown a lot of riders how to ride and given them some of the basics shown here but there is no substitute for the professional training given in the MSF Course.
We offer rider training at CBXMAN. If your schedule won't allow you the time to take the MSF course we have an MSF instructor on call who offers 1 and 2 hour one on one lessons at our facility. Click here for the times and fee information.
If you buy an automatic transmission cruiser or street motorcycle or scooter from us and you have not ridden before we offer one hour of instruction. This instruction is no substitute for the MSF course but we will get you going on your new bike.
Here are some excerpts from our instruction sessions:
- Only use your rear brake for starting until you become a more experienced rider. The front brake generates over 80% of the braking power of a motorcycle and should be the one to use. The exceptions to this are when you are trying to stop on slippery surfaces. Then use your back and front brakes gently. Slippery spots can be found at intersections so keep your eye out for them and move over in your lane to avoid them. Bear in mind that the white markings on roads many times are tape and these are particularly slick when wet.
- When you want the bike to turn, turn your head and LOOK where you want to go. Your body follows your eyes and you'll be amazed how well the bike will maneuver when you look where you want to go.
- Get your braking over with before you enter a turn. Then be prepared to gently roll on the throttle as you are going thru the turn.
- RIDE DEFENSIVELY. If you are always on the lookout you will greatly improve you chances of survival on the street. As you observe situations unfolding in front of you, expect and plan for the worse. You will always be ready then! Continuously scan the road in front of you for imperfections in the surface so you can avoid them. Scan for traffic, pedestrians, pets etc that can wind up in front of you and prepared to either stop or avoid them.