We all know that there are people who seem to have mastered their mode of transportation. They are familiar with the tools and techniques needed to ride smoothly and safely.

For motorcycle enthusiasts, becoming that seasoned rider, or what we call the “expert,” is the ultimate goal. If you're a beginner, how can you transition from a motorcycle newbie to a true expert? Let's dive into some essential skills and tips that will help you level up your riding game.

Respect the Bike

First things first, let's talk about respect. There's an unwritten rule in the motorcycle world: don't touch someone else's bike without permission. Whether you're just chatting with fellow riders or trying to check out someone's ride, you might be tempted to touch or even try their bike, but this behavior can be uncomfortable and disrespectful. The general rule is: don't touch someone's bike unless you've asked first.

When we respect others' bikes, we're already on the right track. But, that's just the beginning. To really become an expert rider, there's a lot more to learn.

Understanding Motorcycle Gears

Motorcycle gears come in two main types: international gears and circular gears. International gears are commonly used around the world and usually consist of 4-6 forward gears plus a neutral gear. The advantage of these is their safety and ease of use. On the other hand, circular gears work in a continuous loop from neutral to the first gear, then to second, third, and all the way to the highest gear, before returning to neutral. While circular gears are simpler and cheaper to produce, they are not as safe as international gears.

How to Shift Gears Properly

Now, let's talk about gear shifting. It's all about understanding the relationship between engine speed and bike speed. Each speed requires a specific gear to function properly. For instance, riding at a low speed with a high gear will make the engine struggle to provide enough torque, which can lead to stalling. This is called “dragging the gear.” On the flip side, running the engine at high speed in a low gear wastes energy and can even damage the engine—a situation we call “revving the gear.”

To shift gears correctly, start in first gear for take-off, use second gear for climbing, third for slow riding, fourth for acceleration, and fifth for cruising. Small motorcycles usually shift gears around 4,000 to 5,000 RPM. It's best not to use third gear or lower once the RPM exceeds 5,000.

If you're unsure about the right gear for the right speed, listen to the engine. If it sounds smooth and pleasant, that means the gears are in sync. If the engine is making a loud, unpleasant noise, that's a sign you need to shift gears.

Common Mistakes in Gear Shifting

One mistake many riders make is shifting without giving the throttle some gas. This can damage the clutch and transmission, causing the bike to stall. It's important to smoothly throttle up when shifting, which not only keeps the bike running smoothly but also protects your clutch and transmission from wear and tear.

Also, when approaching a turn, avoid pulling in the clutch completely. This is a risky move because it can cause the bike to lose traction, making it harder to control, especially in tight turns. Instead, reduce speed and shift down before entering the turn. This will allow you to handle the corner with more stability and control.

Good Habits to Develop

One of the most important habits to form is keeping your feet in the right position. Some sport bikes don't have rear pedal linkage, so avoid resting your feet under the gear shifter. This can hurt your foot if you lean too far into a turn or encounter an obstacle. It also creates unnecessary muscle tension in your legs, leading to fatigue.

Advanced Riding Techniques

Becoming a true expert rider involves mastering techniques for riding in complex conditions. It's not just about controlling the bike but also understanding how to handle tricky situations.

1. Road markings and arrows can be slippery, so reduce speed before crossing them. If you can't avoid them, release the brake before riding over them.

2. In traffic jams or at traffic lights, don't tailgate. Keep at least one bike's distance between you and the vehicle ahead. This gives you more room to react and spot potential road hazards.

3. Blind spots are a bigger concern for motorcyclists, especially when riding near large vehicles. Always try to stay in the places where other drivers can see you.

4. Avoid riding directly behind large vehicles, such as buses or trucks, especially at intersections. These vehicles can block your view and increase your risk of an accident.

5. In heavy traffic, keep your fingers on the brake lever and ride along the left side of the lane. Watching the brake lights of the cars ahead can help you anticipate their actions.

6. If you see a “construction” or “rough road” sign, slow down and watch out for loose gravel or uneven surfaces. Avoid sudden turns or high speeds to prevent accidents.

Night Riding Tips

At night, if the oncoming traffic isn't dimming their high beams, use the road divider lines on the left or right side of your lane to guide you. This reduces the risk of being blinded by bright lights while allowing you to keep an eye on the road conditions.

Country Roads and Animal Hazards

If you're riding in rural areas, be ready to brake quickly, especially in places where animals may unexpectedly cross your path. Be alert for loose gravel or wet leaves that can cause slipping.

Mastering Cornering

When navigating mountain roads or sharp corners, make sure to always lean into the turn with enough speed. For a right-hand turn, stick close to the center line, ease off the brake as you lean into the turn, and accelerate slightly once you're through.

By following these tips and honing your skills, we can all become the “experts” we admire on the roads. So, Lykkers, what do you think? Ready to ride like a pro? Let's keep learning and stay safe!