Moto - Getting Started -

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If you’re new to riding or maybe you rode as a kid and want to get into it again here are a few tips to help get you out there.

Start Slow

No matter what kind of bike you get, just start out easy. I’ve seen so many people get a bike and go out gung-ho, crash and never ride again. Take time to learn the bike, learn the controls and ease into it. If you have a friend that is experienced, patient and wants to help that’s great, otherwise you can take a class.

Get The Right Bike

Everyone has an opinion on what the right bike will be for you. Do your research and be honest with yourself about what kind of riding you want to do. Go to some dealers and talk to different people about what you are thinking you want to do for riding. You may not buy a bike from a dealer but you’ll get some good info and that will help you as you look through bikes in your price range. Do a lot of research on the internet. Motorcycle magazines do tons of bike reviews and how-to articles so take advantage of them. If you do decide to go with a dealer then find one who takes the time to work with you and answer your questions, not just rush you out the door.

Buying Used

Buying a used motorcycle can be a great way to go but buyer beware. If you are going to go that route then you definitely want to have someone with you who is experienced with bikes or take it to a shop to be checked out. A bike that looks good on the outside could have blown out seals in the suspension, bad rings or worn out bushings. Many won’t, but some will so you have to do your research. It is possible to find amazing deals too. It might be an older bike, or even a new bike, with very low hours on it after little use. A lot of times people just want to get it out of the garage so they let it go for cheap.

Get The Right Gear

What gear you get depends on the riding you are going to do but either way, don’t skimp on protective gear. It doesn’t have to be the newest coolest gear on the market but start with the basics. A good fitting helmet, gloves and boots will get you out there. If you are going off-road then a chest protector and shin guards are also a good addition. One of the next things to look for is a hydration pack for longer desert rides. Check local shops first! We have some great local shops with a lot of experienced and knowledgeable riders that will help you. Sometimes I’ll check local and then go to the bargain bin of a couple of the big online motorcycle shops. But if at all possible I buy local because those are the guys that will help you out when you need it.

Practice Makes Perfect

Or something like that. But seriously, practice, practice and practice some more. When I was first getting started I would work on the basics over and over again before even going on a trail. I liked to go to an area in the desert where I could make a smallish triangle. I’d accelerate, brake and turn, accelerate again, brake and keep going and going before turning and doing it in the other direction. Working on basic skills like this will help build a good foundation for the more technical things that you’ll want to learn.

Choosing Trails

Just like with the rest of the disciplines on the site, do your research. Check the trail ratings to make sure that it’s not too much for you to handle and be honest with yourself. Find out if it’s rocky, sandy, a jeep trail, single track, in the tress, exposed in the desert, what the elevation gain or loss is like, does it have water and how long is it?

Riding Buddies

This might seem obvious and if you have only one option as someone to ride with then it probably is. But, having a good riding buddy can make all the difference between a fun day or something you never want to do again. A good riding buddy will have your back when it’s rough going and won’t leave you behind. If you’re fortunate enough to have the opportunity to ride with someone who is experienced, and willing to teach you some things, then take them up on it!

Disclaimer: The information here is for reference only. Always do your research on trail conditions and weather. Talk to your doctor before beginning any strenuous activities. Be safe!