How to Ride a Motorcycle - a Step by Step Tutorial on How to Ride a Motorcycle

Now that you're familiar with your motorcycle's functions, it's time to start it up. Unlike bikes of yore, virtually all modern motorcycles start electrically, without the need to "kick start" the engine to life.

The bike won't start unless the kill switch is in the "on" position, so flip it down before you turn the key (the kill switch is usually a red rocker switch operated by the right thumb, as seen in the top half of the photo.) Now, turn the key to the "ignition" position, which is typically to the right (as seen in the lower half of the photo.) Most bikes will perform a self-check to make sure the gauges are operational, and might involve every warning light going off like a Christmas tree. If you see the speedometer and/or tachometer (which measures engine speed) pin itself and return back to zero, don't worry-- it's normal. When the self-check is complete, make sure you're in neutral (by double-checking that the green "N" is lit.)

Then, use your right thumb to push the start button, which is typically located below the kill switch and marked by a logo of a circular arrow surrounding a lightning bolt. Many bikes will require you to engage the clutch while you start the engine; this is simply a precaution to prevent the bike from accidentally lurching forward because it's in gear.

As you hold the start button the engine will turn over and, as long as everything's working correctly and there's fuel in the tank, start to run. Carbureted bikes might need a slight twist of throttle as the engine turns over in order to get fuel into the cylinders; fuel injected bikes are usually designed so that throttle is not needed at startup.

Once your bike comes to life and the engine turns over, prepare to enjoy one of the age old rituals of motorcycling...