10 Tips for New & Returning Riders

Brandon Finch
Director of E-Commerce, Cycle Gear
RiderCoach, Motorcycle Safety Foundation

It's not news that gas prices are through the roof and will continue to rise. We're seeing more and more motorcycles on the road these days - a few new ones, sure, but lots of pre-loved bikes, too. New and returning riders are pulling out the old iron and firing it up, getting into traffic and feeling the wind.

This makes us pretty happy. Heck, we love bikes and the more of them on the road, the better. More bikes in service means a bigger voice for riders of all types. Of course, we want you to be safe as you ride, so here are my Top 10 Tips for New and Returning Riders:

1. Get (re)trained, and not by Uncle Buck
   Take a course, whether offered by the state or by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (www.msf-usa.org). Practice what they preach.
2. Check the bike's condition
   Especially if it's been sitting. If you're not qualified to check the basics (bolts, tires, cables, fluids, etc.), take it to a mechanic.
3. Hydrate
   In the heat of summer, especially if you drink caffeine, you can dehydrate quickly. That reduces your ability to focus.
4. Wear the gear
   Most riders would rather sweat than bleed. If it's too hot for gear, either don't ride or get better hot-weather gear.
5. Ride like you're invisible
   Because you are.
6. Don't merge or change lanes into blind spots
   The small size of motorcycles lets us easily disappear from view (see #1). Speed up or slow down to stay out blind spots.
7. Keep your head up, looking ahead
   If you give yourself time to react, you'll avoid "unplanned excitement" (panic situations).
8. Use a safety margin and escape routes
   Choose positioning that allows maximum time and space around you. Keep two escape routes in mind as you ride.
9. Communicate and be predictable
   Use your blinkers or hand signals (not that one!) and be smooth as you move through traffic.
10. Use head checks
    Mirrors don't give the whole story (though you get a great view of your elbows). Before changing lanes, look over your shoulder.

The longer you ride safe, the longer you ride. That's what it's all about, right? It's the Ride.



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