My Favorite Riding Habits after 10 Years of Motorcycling

Summary

In this video, the creator shares valuable motorcycling habits and tips accumulated over 10 years of riding. Focused on slow-speed maneuvers, the video highlights techniques like clutch feathering, using the rear brake, and executing tight U-turns. It also covers essential habits for safe road riding, such as keeping the front brake covered, positioning the bike correctly in traffic, and using the balls of your feet for better control. Other practical advice includes warming up tires, practicing patience, and scouting roads before spirited riding. The video is aimed at helping riders build good habits for safer, smoother, and more enjoyable motorcycling.

Takeaways

• 😀 Feather the clutch and drag the rear brake for slow-speed maneuvers to prevent dropping the bike.
• 😀 Always look where you want to go, especially in tight turns and parking lot maneuvers.
• 😀 Use the left foot down technique in slow-speed riding to help with balance and control.
• 😀 For tight U-turns, use full lock, rear brake, and look where you want to go for smoother execution.
• 😀 Cover your front brake at all times to be prepared for sudden situations in traffic.
• 😀 Use the horn and high beams in traffic to increase visibility and communicate with other drivers.
• 😀 Position yourself on the inside of the corner to avoid obstacles or oncoming traffic.
• 😀 Ride on the balls of your feet for better control, comfort, and clearance while cornering.
• 😀 Be patient when riding and avoid risky maneuvers like passing without proper visibility.
• 😀 Don’t be afraid to rev your engine, especially in the optimal RPM range for better performance.
• 😀 Warm up your tires before pushing your bike hard to ensure better grip and safety.

Q & A

What is the importance of feathering the clutch at slow speeds?

Feathering the clutch at slow speeds helps maintain control of the bike without stalling. It allows for smooth, gradual movement, especially in tight or low-speed situations like parking lots.

Why should the rear brake be used instead of the front brake during slow-speed maneuvers?

The rear brake should be used in slow-speed maneuvers because it provides more stability. The front brake, when engaged during tight turns, can cause the bike to tip over or lose balance.

How does looking where you want to go help with slow-speed riding?

Looking where you want to go helps with balance and steering. By focusing on the direction you plan to turn, your body naturally aligns with the motorcycle, making it easier to navigate tight spaces.

What is the 'clamshell' technique mentioned in the video?

The 'clamshell' technique refers to quickly using both the horn and high beams simultaneously to alert other drivers in traffic. This helps make the rider more visible and can prevent accidents.

What is the benefit of covering the front brake while riding?

Covering the front brake at all times ensures that you're ready to react quickly in case of an emergency. It reduces the time needed to engage the brake and can help prevent collisions in unexpected situations.

Why is lane positioning important, and how does it contribute to safety?

Proper lane positioning ensures maximum visibility and safety. By staying on the safer side of the lane (e.g., the inside of a curve or road), riders reduce the risk of collisions, especially from oncoming traffic or vehicles encroaching on their lane.

What is the ideal riding position for better control of the motorcycle?

Riding on the balls of your feet provides better control, balance, and maneuverability. This position gives you more flexibility and agility while riding, allowing you to react quickly to changes in the road or bike conditions.

What are the risks of not warming up your tires before riding aggressively?

Cold tires have significantly less grip than warmed-up tires, increasing the risk of slipping or losing control. Warming up the tires ensures they provide optimal grip and better handling, especially when cornering or riding aggressively.

How does patience contribute to safer riding?

Patience allows riders to assess situations and avoid risky decisions, like making passes without clear visibility. By waiting for the right moment, riders avoid accidents and maintain better control, ultimately staying safer on the road.

Why should you avoid 'lugging' the engine on a motorcycle?

Lugging the engine (riding at low RPMs) can strain the engine and reduce its performance. Motorcycles perform better and are more responsive when kept within an optimal RPM range, typically 40-60% of the bike's redline.