You’ve probably heard the phrase “as easy as riding a bike.” While most people think of bicycles when they hear it, there’s no reason it shouldn’t apply to motorcycles, too. (And in fact, if you know how to ride a bicycle, you’re already partway to learning how to ride a motorbike!)
Learning to ride a motorcycle can be daunting, but we’ve put together some tips and advice to make it easier for you, from finding the right bike to getting your license. We hope this helps you get started safely and comfortably with a bike you’re excited to ride!
Gear Up
Riding a motorcycle is not without risk, so having the right gear is super important. Here’s what we recommend wearing whenever you ride:
- A helmet designed for motorcycling
- Protective motorcycle gloves
- Sturdy boots that cover your ankles
- Armored, abrasion-resistant or reinforced motorcycle pants and jacket, or a riding suit
- Eye protection (if you don’t have a full-face helmet)
- Back and chest protectors (if you don’t have armored gear)
For more info on gear, check out this blog post.
Choose Your Motorcycle
Now comes the most exciting part: choosing your bike!
The sheer number of options out there can be overwhelming – but thinking about the type of riding you’re likely to be doing can help to narrow it down. Here’s a great guide on what to look for based on your riding style.
One important consideration for beginners: choose a motorcycle that is not too heavy or powerful for you. You’ll need to be able to balance and manoeuvre it easily. (As you progress, you can move up to a bigger, heavier, and more powerful motorcycle, if you like.) You’ll also need to be able to put both feet down on the ground and feel comfortable in the saddle.
Want to browse or need some inspiration? Check out our current auctions.
P.S. If you don’t have your own bike and gear when you’re first learning to ride, many motorcycle training courses can offer the necessary equipment to practice and get your license.
Get to Know the Controls
Once you’ve got your bike, it’s super important to get acquainted with the location of all the controls:
- Rear brake
- Front brake
- Throttle
- Clutch lever
- Gearshift
- Key ignition
- Killswitch or engine cut-off switch
- Starter
- Lightswitches (high and low beams)
- Turn signals
- Horn
- Choke (if you have one)
Make sure you also know how to use your kickstand and fill the gas tank.
Get Your License
The exact process and requirements for getting your motorcycle license will vary depending on which province or territory you apply in. However, no matter where you live, the typical steps include:
- Studying a driver’s handbook
- Passing a knowledge test
- Passing a vision test
- Passing a road test
Some provinces and territories might also require you to:
- Pass a balance test
- Take an approved motorcycle training course
Need more information on getting licensed in your province or territory? ICanDrive.ca is a great resource!
Get Comfortable and Confident
Even once you’ve got your license, there’s no substitute for practice. That’s where signing up with a riding school can help. Some schools offer both one-to-one private lessons and group classes. It’s also important to check that the school is certified under your province or territory’s Motor Vehicle Act – that’s how you’ll know the instructors are experienced, following the safety regulations, and teaching you proper methods.
Here’s what you should be confident doing before going out to ride on your own:
- Braking in a smooth, controlled manner
- Using the clutch and shifting gears
- Turning, steering, and manoeuvering
Once you’ve nailed those, it’s time to get comfortable on the road. Start with paved, quiet, two-lane roads and work your way up to busier streets with a bit more traffic, and eventually, highways if you like. The confidence to ride safely on busier and faster roads will come as you get to know your bike and its controls – but never rush this. Don’t be afraid to take it slow or sign up for more lessons if you need more time and guidance to practice riding safely in different traffic, weather, and road conditions.
Got questions about learning to ride, or, if you’re reading this as an experienced rider, is there anything you wished you’d known when you were starting out? We’d love to hear from you in the comments!