Motorcycle Riding Tips To Ride Like A Pro!

Summary

This video offers 10 essential tips, plus a bonus, for riding a motorbike like a pro. It covers body and head positioning, braking techniques, smooth downshifting, and precise throttle control to maximize speed and stability. Riders learn the importance of looking ahead, using proper foot placement, relaxing their grip, and holding the throttle correctly. Additional guidance includes breathing for focus and endurance, and using the rear brake for advanced control and cornering. Each tip emphasizes safety, gradual progression, and technique, providing both beginners and experienced riders with actionable strategies to improve performance, confidence, and enjoyment on the track.

Takeaways

• 😀 Body positioning is crucial for control and stability on the bike. Tuck in on straightaways, adjust elbows and shoulders, and stay aligned with the bike to maintain optimal handling.
• 😀 When braking, sit up to shift weight and prevent the bike from lifting its front wheel. Use the front brake primarily, but be mindful of how you release the brake as you enter the corner.
• 😀 Mid-corner body position is essential. Slide your body off the seat before the corner and keep your inside arm relaxed to help you lean further into the turn.
• 😀 Always ride on the balls of your feet. This ensures better control, prevents your foot from dragging, and allows you to be more agile, especially when cornering.
• 😀 Look further ahead than you think you need to. This gives you more time to anticipate what's coming and helps avoid target fixation.
• 😀 Focus on smooth throttle application. Open the throttle gradually as you pick the bike up after the apex and maintain control to avoid losing traction or high-siding.
• 😀 When back shifting, be quick and deliberate. If using a clutch, blip the throttle to match engine revs, but let the bike's computer handle the rest for smoother transitions.
• 😀 Relax your grip on the throttle. A light grip reduces arm pump and fatigue, helping you stay more comfortable during longer rides.
• 😀 Ensure you're reaching 100% throttle on straights. Riders often think they’re at full throttle but aren't. Adjust your grip to maximize acceleration and speed.
• 😀 Breathe deeply and stay relaxed. Holding your breath leads to fatigue and loss of focus. Relaxation improves performance and endurance.
• 🎯 Bonus Tip: The rear brake can be used strategically for stabilizing the bike, especially during wheelies or tight cornering. Advanced riders often use it to help control bike movement, but beginners should focus more on the front brake.

Q & A

What is the recommended body position when riding on a straight section of the track?

On a straight, slide yourself to the back of the bike, tuck your chin toward the tank, pull your wrists back, elbows in, and shoulder down. This reduces wind resistance and improves stability.

How should a rider position themselves when braking at the end of a straight?

Sit upright slightly, straighten your arms, and shift your weight further back in the seat to prevent the front wheel from lifting. This helps maximize braking efficiency while maintaining bike stability.

What is the proper mid-corner body position?

Slide your bum toward the inside of the corner, bend the inside elbow, relax your shoulder, and keep your inside foot tucked in. This reduces bike instability and allows better cornering control.

How should a rider manage front brake pressure?

Start with an initial touch to load the front tire, then gradually apply maximum pressure. As you turn into the corner, progressively release the brake to avoid locking the front wheel.

What are the key considerations for backshifting while braking?

Backshift quickly and spaced out for smooth deceleration. Use the clutch efficiently, and if necessary, blip the throttle to match engine revs with wheel speed, avoiding rear wheel hopping.

Why is head position important on the track?

Looking far ahead slows your perception of speed and helps anticipate the track. Turn your head toward the apex and exit point to guide your line and prepare for upcoming maneuvers.

What is target fixation and how can it affect riding?

Target fixation occurs when a rider looks at an obstacle instead of where they want to go. The bike tends to follow the gaze, potentially causing accidents. Always look at the intended path.

How should a rider progressively open the throttle through a corner?

Begin with a light touch at the apex to add rear wheel weight, then gradually increase throttle as the bike stands up. Maintain control relative to lean angle to avoid losing traction or high-siding.

What role does relaxation and breathing play in high-speed riding?

Holding your breath or tensing up reduces reaction time and causes fatigue. Regular, deep breathing keeps muscles relaxed, improves focus, and allows faster, smoother riding.

How and when should the rear brake be used effectively?

Primarily to control wheelies on powerful bikes or to assist turning into a corner. Light, gentle use can stabilize the bike, but most stopping is done with the front brake; rear brake use is advanced and optional for track day riders.

What is the recommended grip on the throttle to avoid arm pump?

Relax your grip; motorbike throttles are light and do not require force. Sliding the hand properly and gradually winding on the throttle reduces fatigue and maintains precise control.

Why is it important to use the full width of the track on corner exits?

Using all available track space allows the bike to stand up earlier, enabling more throttle and faster acceleration. It optimizes corner exit speed and maintains smooth control.