Everything First-Time Motorcycle Riders Need to Know

Learn how to be safe, before hitting the road.

motorcycle at night
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Image via Getty/Amateur Photographer

motorcycle at night

Nothing feels quite like finding the perfect bike. As the weather continues to warm up (in between these nasty storms), more people are choosing to ride a motorcycle for the first time. This is great, but when you’re a new rider, there’s a lot of information to take in. In order to help keep you, and everybody else on the road who you're riding around, we’ve compiled a list of the basic things you need to keep in mind before you twist the throttle for the first time. Above all, we hope you’ll do two things for many years after your first time: have fun, and ride safe. Read on for Everything First-Time Motorcycle Riders Need to Know

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Look where you want to go.

motorcycle green light

Ride more defensively than you drive.

motorcycle in traffic

Don't forget to turn your choke off.

carburetor choke

Adjust your mirrors before you start moving.

motorcycle mirror

Do a pre-ride inspection.

motorcycle back chain

Know your estimated MPG and fuel capacity.

fuel tank capacity

Chrome gets hot.

motorcycle chrome handle

Denim won't protect you in a crash.

motorcycle injury

Dress in layers.

motorcycle apparel

Pick footwear with good traction.

motorcycle boots

Standard shifters will scuff up your kicks.

motorcycle footpeg with brake

Know local motorcycle laws.

motorcycle riders stop sign

Check tire condition.

motorcycle tires

Check your tire pressure.

motorcycle tire monitor

Know if and where you have a fuel valve.

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