learning how to ride - lesson 3 road without stop signs

Take a look at your local street map and plan out a route of 1-3km in distance and that does not have any of the following:

1. Intersections
2. Major roads
3. Traffic
4. Stop lights and stop signs
5. Speed limits over 60km

If you live in a busy area where there is high traffic, practice during hours when traffic is it's lightest, such as early morning or during working hours or weekends when there are likely to be less drivers on the road.

lane positions

In some ways the size of the motorcycle can work to your advantage. Each traffic lane gives a motorcycle three paths of travel, allowing you to position yourself to your advantage. Your lane position should:

• Increase your ability to see and be seen.
• Avoid others' blind spots.
• Avoid surface hazards.
• Protect your lane from other drivers.
• Communicate your intentions.
• Avoid wind blast from other vehicles.
• Provide an escape route.

In general, the best position to be in is the one that increases your visibility to other drivers. You also want to 'own' your lane. Hugging the side of the lane may tempt some drivers to share your lane with you! To prevent this, ride on the side adjacent to other drivers, if you are in a center lane either side is ok.

The center portion of the lane collects oil and gas dripping from other vehicles, avoid this section of the lane to prevent your bike from losing traction.

A good idea on your first ride is to have a friend follow you around in a car, preferably, or on another bike. This way they can slow traffic down behind you or assist you if you need help. Just remember, your friend is there as an aid, not as an audience - do not try and show off to them, you will either get hurt, or will not impress them at all as your riding skills are rudimentary at best at your current experience level.

Practice your route until you can perfect it. It may seem boring riding the same turn over and over again, but are you leaning into it properly? Have you been able to smoothly gear up/down? Mastering these techniques on your easy route first will set the stage for when you are riding in more complex situations and will increase your riding skills by practicing the correct methods so it becomes natural to you. Remember, the age old saying still rings true - practice makes perfect.