Mastering the Road: A Comprehensive Guide to Safe Motorcycle Riding

Motorcycling offers a unique sense of freedom and adventure, but it also demands a high level of skill, awareness, and responsibility. Creating a safer highway environment is the shared responsibility of drivers and motorcyclists alike. This is achieved by staying alert and using common sense and courtesy while on the road. Whether you're a novice eager to experience the thrill of the open road or an experienced rider looking to refine your skills, prioritizing safety is paramount. This comprehensive guide will cover essential aspects of safe motorcycle riding, from pre-ride preparations to advanced riding techniques.

Essential Preparations for Safe Riding

Before even starting the engine, a responsible rider ensures they are fully prepared for the journey ahead. This involves a combination of proper training, protective gear, and a thorough understanding of the motorcycle itself.

Investing in Rider Education

Riding a motorcycle isn’t as hard as most people think. It’s on par with learning how to ride a bike, except you’re using an engine instead of pedaling your feet to get where you’re going. If you already know your way around a bike, you’re already halfway there. And you can still learn to ride a motorcycle fairly easily, even if you’ve never touched a bicycle in your life. Motorcycling is not just recreation. Before you head out on the road for a ride on your motorcycle, there are several things you should consider. Taking a safety course is crucial for developing the necessary skills and knowledge to handle a motorcycle safely.

California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP): The CHP California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP) provides great information for new and existing riders. The CHP also strongly encourages all motorcycle riders to sign up for the CMSP, which is administered by the CHP as California’s official motorcycle safety and training program. The program offers courses for new and experienced riders. In California, the CMSP offers a variety of courses tailored to different skill levels. The program consists of a 15-hour classroom and on-cycle Basic Rider Course (BRC). The BRC is mandatory for those under the age of 21 but is also recommended to those 21 and older who are seeking to obtain a motorcycle license. The CMSP also offers the Premier Program, which is an extended BRC consisting of 7.5 hours of classroom and 13.5 hours of on-cycle time. Riders can refresh or enhance skills at a Basic RiderCourse2. As of 2023, over 1,450,000 motorcycle riders have received training at one of the CMSP training sites since the program began.
Basic RiderCourse (BRC): Designed for the novice rider with no (or limited) street riding experience. Gives riders age 21 and older, who already possess basic motorcycle knowledge and riding skills but are not licensed, the opportunity to achieve intermediate level skills and the DMV skills test waiver in one day. Successful completion of an entry skills exam is required to take this course. The California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP) Motorcyclist Training Course (MTC) is designed for the novice rider with no (or limited) street riding experience and is required for those under 21 years old. This course includes both 5-hours of classroom and 10-hours on-cycle instruction. You will learn fundamental skills required to operate the motorcycle and progress to street riding skills and strategies. Upon successful completion you will earn a DMV skills test waiver (DL389). Topics covered include fear, understanding motorcycle controls, how motorcycles turn, proper cornering strategies and emergency accident avoidance skills. The course is based on the most current research in rider safety and utilizes modern training methods. Though designed for new riders, any rider that has not taken a motorcycle safety course will benefit from this clinic. Riders must already know how to ride a two-wheeled bicycle to enroll.
1-Day Premier Course: The California Motorcyclist Safety Program 1-Day Course allows riders-who are 21 and older and who already know how to ride but are not licensed-the opportunity to achieve intermediate level skills. Riders will also receive a DMV skills test waiver for successful completion of the course. It is also the perfect next step for newer riders who are looking to improve their skills as well as riders that have recently returned to riding after years off. The 1-Day Premier Course is based on the most current research in rider safety, utilizes modern training methods and has been proven to enhance student outcomes. Although designed primarily as a safety course, the course is also challenging and fun. It is completed in one 8-hour day. We will provide one of our training motorcycles for use during the course or students may choose to ride their own motorcycles/scooters as long as it meets the requirements. Successful completion of both the riding and written portions of the course will earn the rider a DMV DL389 skills test waiver. Exhilarating. Educational. Check out the hands-on instruction of a California Motorcyclist Safety Course. Training locations will provide you with a DOT-compliant helmet. All you have to do is come prepared wearing pants, boots, jacket, gloves and eye protection. Don’t own a motorcycle or unsure if it’s for you?
Motorcycle Safety Programs: IDOT’s goal is to provide motorcycle training to all with the inclination to ride. It is not the intent to entice people to ride motorcycles, but rather to train all who are interested in the benefits of training. Another important aspect of motorcycle safety and this program is the Public Act 83 820, established on January 1, 1984. This law requires any person under the age of 18 to complete a training course and examination before receiving a license with a class “M” endorsement. The CRSTP and Motorcycle Safety Programs are important for the citizen of Illinois.

Obtaining a Motorcycle License

Whether you’re commuting on a motorcycle or just riding for fun, it’s important to know the general age to get your motorcycle license. You generally need to be at least 16 years old to start riding. You will need to get a motorcycle license and learner’s permit even if you already have a valid driver’s license. After completing the requirements of the motorcycle safety course, you will be issued a Certificate of Completion of Motorcycle Training (DL 389) by the motorcycle training facility. You must complete a motorcycle rider training course approved by the CHP, provide a DL 389 form to DMV to be issued your permit. You must hold the class M1 or M2 permit for six months prior to getting a motorcycle license. DMV may waive the skills test for a person presenting a valid DL 389; however, you may be required to perform an observation test for a motorcycle only license. You may either choose to complete the motorcycle safety course approved by CHP and provide the DL 389 or schedule an appointment online with DMV to take the driving test. The above requirements are for motorcycle safety training only; standard licensing requirements (application fee, proof of residency and identity and SSN, having your photo taken and fingerprint scanned, etc.) can be found on our motorcycle licenses page.

Investing in Protective Gear

To ride safely, you will need all the proper motorcycle gear. There are no seatbelts or airbags to support you in case of an accident. Many studies indicate that the head, legs, and arms of a rider are most likely to be injured in an accident, which is why wearing the proper gear makes a difference.

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Helmet: Find a helmet that fits your head’s exact shape and size by trying it on in the store. You can also measure the circumference of your head using a soft measuring tape when ordering a helmet online.
Protective Clothing: Protect your skin by covering up with durable layers, including thick pants, boots, gloves, and a long-sleeve jacket.
Pads: Consider adding pads on your knees and elbows to make it easier on your body.

Choosing the Right Motorcycle

Choosing your first motorcycle is a thrilling step, and getting the right bike can make all the difference to your riding experience. Starting with a lighter, more manageable bike can boost your confidence and help you master the basics, like driving in a straight line or making a U-turn, more comfortably. Additionally, consider the bike's weight and power. A heavy or very powerful model can be overwhelming and challenging to control when you’re just starting out. Generally, a motorcycle suitable for new riders will weigh between 300 to 500 pounds. In terms of power, a beginner should look for a motorcycle with an engine size between 250cc to 500cc.

Familiarizing Yourself with the Motorcycle

As a new biker, familiarize yourself with the clutch lever, front brake and rear brake while the bike is stationary. When you first hear the engine start up, it might be a little startling, but it’s an essential part of becoming familiar with your new ride. Take your time to understand how to use the clutch lever to smoothly engage and disengage the engine from the drivetrain, which is essential when you start or stop. Don't forget to get comfortable with how to shift gears, as mastering this will make your rides smoother and more enjoyable.

Mastering Essential Riding Skills

Once you have the right gear and a suitable motorcycle, it's time to focus on developing the core skills necessary for safe riding.

Balancing the Motorcycle

Balancing a motorcycle, especially at low speeds, can be challenging, but it's a vital skill that all motorcyclists need to master. When you’re just starting out, practicing your balance will help you build the muscle memory that experienced riders rely on. A great way to improve your low-speed balance is to practice cornering and downshifting smoothly. These techniques require precise control and help you maintain stability when maneuvering the bike. This kind of practice not only prepares you for typical riding scenarios but also builds your confidence on the bike.

Turning Techniques

Mastering the art of turning on a motorcycle can be one of the hardest parts of learning how to ride. Twisting the handlebars won’t be enough to turn your bike at high speeds. You’ll need to use your body weight to turn the bike in the direction you want to go. This involves leaning your weight to one side. Leaning far to one side is the only way to turn at high speeds. Try setting up a long stretch of road that curves to one side. Drive around the outside of the curve and give yourself plenty of time to get into the lean.

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Responsible Riding Practices

Beyond skills and gear, responsible riding involves a commitment to safety, awareness, and respect for other road users.

Staying Alert and Aware

Creating a safer highway environment is the shared responsibility of drivers and motorcyclists alike. This is achieved by staying alert and using common sense and courtesy while on the road. Every vehicle on the road has its place on the road, but motorcyclists face additional dangers because motorcycles require exceptional handling ability and are harder to see.

Avoiding Distractions

We are all used to using our phones and other mobile devices pretty much every second of the day. You may be tempted to look down at your phone or check the map on the GPS while riding, but it’s never a good idea to take your eyes off the road. Use a Bluetooth helmet communicator to stay connected to your phone and GPS while riding. The device clips onto your helmet without blocking your view. You can also use your motorcycle Bluetooth headset to keep in touch with your instructor, fellow riders and other members of the biking community. The device works like a radio, connecting you to 15 other riders at a time. Shop for a Motorcycle Bluetooth Headset from Cardo

Riding Under the Influence

It is also important for motorcyclists to minimize their risks by riding responsibly, always wearing a helmet and other protective gear and to never ride under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicants.

Minimizing Risks and Enhancing Safety

Motorcycles are 38 times more dangerous than driving a car in terms of fatalities per miles traveled; which is why motorcyclists in particular need to minimize their risks. The more skilled of a rider you are, the less of a chance you have of being involved in an accident. R.I.D.E. Be accountable for the safety of yourself and others. Make informed decisions and choices before and during every ride.

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R.I.D.E. Right: There’s a wrong way to ride and a right way to ride and the difference between the two saves lives. Learn how to R.I.D.E. Right by taking a California Motorcyclist Safety Course. The course gives you hands on experience that will teach the necessary skills so you can be a Responsible, Informed, Disciplined and Equipped rider.

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