How to Ride a Motorcycle
Motorcycles can be more than just expressions of freedom and rebellion. They can save a lot of money on gasoline and maintenance. Still, caution and safety are extremely important as they can't offer all the protection of a four-wheeler. One must be very careful when riding a motorcycle.
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Instructions
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Preparation
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1
Get a special endorsement on your driver's license. Every state requires a motorcycle riding test. Contact your DMV office for your state's study guide and test information.
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2
Get a helmet. Not all states will require you to wear one, but it's the smartest thing you can do.
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3
Get the appropriate clothing for riding. You want every inch of your body covered. Leather usually offers the best protection as well as being stylish.
Starting and Riding
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4
Turn the key in the ignition switch. The ignition and starter are separate on a motorcycle, so it will not immediately start.
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5
Hold down the lever on the left handlebar (the clutch) and start the bike. Older motorcycles have a kick-start lever on the right-hand side. Newer bikes will have an electric start button.
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6
Lift the gear lever on the left-hand side up into first gear and ease out the clutch to start moving. Turn the throttle on the right handlebar to accelerate.
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7
Switch gears by laying off the throttle and squeezing the clutch. Move the shift lever up with your foot for a higher gear and down for a lower gear.
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8
Stop the motorcycle by applying all the handlebar levers and foot pedals. This includes the clutch on the left handlebar, the front brake on the right, the gear lever on the left side and the rear brake on the right. It is now safe to turn off the motorcycle.
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Tips & Warnings
Only a small number of motorcycles have automatic transmission, making manual gear shifting unnecessary.
It may be legal to lane split while riding, or ride between lanes on the freeway. Studies show it may be safer than idling in traffic jams. Check with your state's DMV office.
