Everything First-Time Motorcycle Riders Need to Know
Learn how to be safe, before hitting the road.

Image via Getty/Amateur Photographer

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.
RELATED: The 20 Best Sport Bikes Available Now
RELATED: 10 Great Beginner Motorcycles
RELATED: Best 20 Crotch Rockets
Look where you want to go.

Ride more defensively than you drive.

Don't forget to turn your choke off.

Adjust your mirrors before you start moving.

Do a pre-ride inspection.

Know your estimated MPG and fuel capacity.

Chrome gets hot.

Denim won't protect you in a crash.

Dress in layers.

Pick footwear with good traction.

Standard shifters will scuff up your kicks.

Know local motorcycle laws.

Check tire condition.

Check your tire pressure.

Know if and where you have a fuel valve.
