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Top 7 Motorcycle Beginner Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

New to riding? Learn about common motorcycle beginner mistakes and how to avoid them. Schell Distributing Inc in Idaho Falls, ID, has you covered!

Excited about starting your motorcycle journey? Riding offers incredible freedom, but as a beginner, it’s easy to stumble into a few common pitfalls. That’s where we come in! We’ll walk you through the most frequent motorcycle beginner mistakes and share tips to keep you safe and confident on every ride. Let’s get you road-ready!

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1. Choosing a Motorcycle That’s Too Big or Powerful

It’s tempting for new riders to go straight for a big, powerful bike, thinking they’ll “grow into it.” But oversized motorcycles can be tricky for beginners. They’re harder to control, especially when stopping, making tight turns, or riding at low speeds. This can quickly turn your dream ride into a nerve-wracking experience.

Advice:
Start with a smaller, lightweight bike that’s easy to handle. It’s the perfect way to build confidence and master the basics. Once you’ve got the skills, you can move up to a bigger bike that suits your experience and style.

2. Neglecting Situational Awareness in Traffic

As a new rider, it’s easy to focus solely on the road right in front of you. But traffic is unpredictable! Sudden stops, abrupt lane changes, or distracted drivers can turn a simple ride into a risky one if you’re not paying attention to the bigger picture.

Advice:
Keep your eyes moving! Regularly scan the road ahead and check your mirrors. Watch how other drivers behave, and be ready to react. Defensive riding isn’t just smart—it’s your best safety tool on the road.

3. Assuming You’re Visible to Other Drivers

Motorcycles are easy to overlook because of their smaller size. Even if you’re decked out in bright gear with your headlights blazing, you can’t assume other drivers see you. Relying on them to notice you is a risky gamble.

Advice:
Wear high-visibility gear and keep your headlights on, even during the day. Position yourself strategically on the road to avoid blind spots, and try to make eye contact with drivers at intersections.

4. Taking a Passenger Before You’re Ready

Riding with a passenger adds complexity by altering your bike's balance, braking, and acceleration. Without sufficient solo riding experience, these changes can feel overwhelming and unsafe.

Advice:
Master solo riding first, focusing on balance and control. When you're ready to take a passenger, practice with your bike stationary to adjust to the added weight. Communicate expectations clearly with your passenger to ensure a smooth experience.

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5. Jumping into Group Rides Prematurely

Group rides might look exciting, but for beginners, they can be overwhelming. Riding close to others while trying to match the pace of experienced riders adds pressure and increases the chance of errors.

Advice:
Start by honing your skills through solo rides. When you’re ready, join smaller, beginner-friendly groups where you can ride at your own pace.

6. Overlooking Regular Maintenance

It’s easy for new riders to overlook routine maintenance, but it’s one of the most crucial habits to develop. Ignoring simple checks like tire pressure, chain tension, or oil levels can turn a fun ride into a risky one—or worse, leave you stranded.

Advice:
Get into the habit of performing pre-ride checks and follow your bike’s maintenance schedule. Learning basic DIY maintenance skills can save you money and prevent unexpected breakdowns.

7. Wearing the Wrong Gear

Some beginners prioritize style over safety, opting for casual clothing instead of proper gear. This can leave them vulnerable to serious injuries in the event of a fall.

Advice:
Invest in quality protective gear, including a helmet, gloves, boots, and abrasion-resistant clothing. Visit a reputable motorcycle shop for expert advice on gear that balances safety and comfort.

In Conclusion

Avoiding these common motorcycle beginner mistakes is all about patience, practice, and preparation. Start small, stay vigilant, and prioritize your safety with every ride. Remember, motorcycling is a journey of growth, and each ride is a step toward becoming a confident and skilled rider. Enjoy the freedom and adventure that comes with the open road—safely and responsibly!