The 5 Most Common Beginner Mistakes in Motorcycling

Motorcyclists on road trip preparing to ride — Thomas Barwick / Getty Images

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Updated on 05/01/19

So you've taken the first steps, learned how to ride a motorcycle, picked up all the safety gear, and maybe even started shopping for your first bike — what's next?

The Motorcycle Safety Foundation has put together a list of five common beginner mistakes, and we've compiled them here. Check out these tips to get one step ahead of the curve.

01

of 05

Buying Too Much Motorcycle

Our lists of beginner, intermediate, and advanced beginner motorcycles have one thing in common: they feature smaller, more maneuverable features that help new riders buzz through the learning curve.

Though it's tempting to go all out and buy a big, powerful motorcycle, you'll become a better rider more quickly by starting out on something smaller. And whether you're looking for a cruiser or a sportbike, chances are there's a bike out there that will help you build your chops quickly.

02

of 05

Too Much, Too Soon

As tempting as it may be to ride everywhere the moment you've scored your motorcycle license, remember it's a jungle out there: challenging roads probably offer more hazards than you're ready to deal with, thick traffic adds a layer of menace, and hectic intersections all increase the risk factors for new riders.

Take your time by taking roads less traveled, and you'll be able to focus more on the art of riding without worrying about avoiding dangerous distractions. Don't worry; if you stay safe during your crucial early experiences on a bike, it will give you more confidence when you're ready to take on more challenging conditions.

03

of 05

Not Keeping a Clear Mental Picture of Traffic

There's more to riding in traffic than just scanning your eyes ahead. Is that car to your right slowly encroaching into your lane? Does that parked car have somebody about to swing the door open? Is the person behind you aware that you're slowing down for red light?

In this age of rampant driver distraction, keeping a 360-degree image of traffic around you is crucial; when you've reached that level of awareness, the unexpected is no longer a surprise. Stay on top of your surroundings by scanning well ahead, checking side-to-side, and occasionally checking your mirrors.

04

of 05

Not Assuming You're Invisible

Riders who've been around a long time usually offer the same piece of advice to newbies: Assume you're invisible.

While there are many ways to stay visible on a bike, it's also helpful to think about motorists around you as oblivious to your presence. Even if it's your right of way, don't assume a car won't cut you off; even if you've made eye contact with a driver, don't bet the farm that he or she won't make a sudden move that puts you in jeopardy. And finally, keep a finger over your brake lever at all times just in case emergency avoidance maneuvers are required — and remember: only the paranoid survive.

05

of 05

Taking a Passenger or Going on a Group Ride Before You're Ready

Motorcycling offers a deep sense of community; after all, it's one of the numerous reasons we ride.

As tempting as it is to throw a friend on the back and head for the hills, riding with a passenger significantly changes your bike's handling dynamics — and, let's face it, we're also more likely to push harder when we're trying to impress someone.

Similarly, riding in a group poses its own set of challenges; not only do you need an added layer of spatial awareness, there's often pressure to ride faster than you might feel comfortable with.

Spend your early riding time solo, and you'll get better in tune with your own pace and way of doing things on two wheels. Soon enough, you'll be ready to share your riding with others.