Learn How to Ride a Motorcycle with NO prior Experience

My introduction to the most important Section in the course if you're a new motorcycle rider.

This first section is filmed on a Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two

The controls on a motorcycle are very unique and are different than any other vehicle. Knowing their location is a simple yet vital step to learning how to ride.

Introduction of the Motorcycle and how to start it up!

Learn a good habit to get into when you're starting motorcycles that will get you safe.

Be sure to ready this for more details on alternate starting procedures for non-fuel-injected (carburetor) motorcycles. Learn about kick-starters if your bike isn't equipped with an electric starter.

Learn and understand the finer details of the "friction zone" before my first exercise. If you have never driven a manual transmission car or motorcycle this is extremely important and probably the steepest part of the learning curve.

This is the very first technique you will want to practice when you are learning to ride for the first time. It's important to spend as much time as you need on this before you move onto the next step. Practice this in a large, low traffic area like an empty parking lot etc.

Because this step to learning is so important for beginners, I wanted to give my students another perspective of exactly what I'm doing with my hands and feet.

A crucial technique that, once mastered, will give you a ton of confidence when riding. Something that you will ALWAYS use and a key part of riding a motorcycle.

A common problem that I see new riders get very frustrated with. The solution is very simple yet so many people don't understand it.

Practicing this lecture repeatedly will be crucial. Spend as much time as needed on this technique and make you you practice on a road that isn't busy or in a large parking lot.

Learn how to sift gears for the first time. You can only stay in first for so long before you need to go FASTER! I go over proper clutch and sifting techniques.

I wanted to take a minute to introduce you to a more detailed look at enhancing your turning abilities.

You would be surprised at how much technique can be derived from riding a bicycle. There are a lot of parallels, that I go over in this lecture.

As a new motorcycle rider, this is the very best method to stay in absolute control of the bike during a turn.

A more advanced topic on turning that most riders are doing and don't even know it. It's important to know what you're doing though because knowledge is power and knowing the mechanics behind this concept will make you a better motorcycle rider!

How to shift your weight properly in a turn to maximize your bike's performance in the "twisties."

The throttle on a motorcycle needs to be managed within a millimeter's accuracy in turns. Learn how to navigate your bike's path successfully through a turn like a pro.

An advanced body weight technique to use when road conditions are bad.

You can't just rely on one brake! Learn the strengths & weaknesses of each.

An overview on the mechanics on motorcycle's independent front/rear braking system.

A good Habit often found among great riders that never really surfaces in discussion much

Improper braking in a turn is one of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents. Learn these rules and avoid these common errors. Stay safe.

Everyone will eventually need to stop in a panic situation. Know how to do it safely.

A common practice in a motorcycle rider's repertoire. Use on continuous declines like mountain road etc.

How do I know if I'm in the Right Gear? Stick around as I introduce this next section.

A rudimentary concept that sometimes experienced riders take for granted. Watch and listen as I go over the mechanics of proper/safe downsifting when coming to a stop.

Use your engine's power wisely. Know what RPM ranges to be in during different riding situations and road conditions.

Muscle memory will take over and eventually and shifting gears will turn into one fluid motion.

A not-so-common device that is sometimes found on heavy cruiser bikes. Learn how to use it and save the toe of your boots!

I leave nothing to ambiguity. If you want to take all the guess work out of the equation, check out some of these proven beginner bikes.

A detailed look at how I purchase used bikes. I go over criteria to look for when choosing a first bike and some things to watch out for. If you're in need of your first bike to learn how to ride - then you must watch this lecture. Even if you don't find your bike online there are some concepts discussed that will help you reduce your risk of getting a bad "learner bike". Following this criteria will also maximize your ability to sell your first bike and get close to what you paid for it.

Get a helmet that fits properly. I'll go over different types of Helmets and the Pro's and Con's of each

A needed piece of equipment when riding. Learn to pick the best foot wear for you and the bike you're riding.

I never ride without gloves - you shouldn't either. Protect your hands from the elements.

If you can't see then you can't ride. There is "good, better, best" when protecting your eyes.

Learn these basic maintenance points to keep your bike running right and reduce your risk to certain equipment failures.

The most important equipment check you can make. Don't let your tire pressure run low!

Oil is the life blood of your engine. Don't neglect it or your engine will fail. Learn how to check your oil and know when to take it in to be changed.

Get a Pig Tail, AKA a battery lead and a trickle charger. Maintaining a battery on a motorcycle takes more effort than a car. You can't just let it sit.

Simple but important point when you're deciding what kind of fuel to put into your baby.

You need to be seen to stay safe on the road. Perform this check before you ride every time.