For just about every new biker, even those who are blessed with unshakable confidence, the first tentative steps on the road represent something of a giant leap into unknown territory. While it’s easy to ride a motorcycle, and it’s something millions of us take for granted, it’s sometimes difficult to remember just how nerve-wracking it once was. Even if you only felt trepidation for a short time, it was still a tangible and somewhat scary experience.
There are plenty of publications and websites which offer practical advice for first-time riders, of course, so there’s never any need for newbies to feel as though they are on their own. Thankfully, every revolution of the wheels takes the rider to a more experienced level, so the most important thing to do is simply gain expertise. Every ride you take will lead to an increase in your proficiency and, in time, to your confidence.
It goes without saying that you should watch your speed when you first take to the road on two wheels. Every potential issue will be more difficult to deal with if you are going too fast, so it’s only natural that you should be a little wary at first. In time, as the confidence begins to appear, you will become increasingly skilled, and one day you may look back and wonder at your initial slow pace. In the meantime, just accept it and, as they say, go with it.
Always be aware of others
Even the most experienced riders will tell you that you need to be wary of other road users, especially car drivers who may not be able to see you or your bike. Many of the worst accidents involving two and four wheel vehicles came about because of a rider proving ‘invisible’ to a car driver. The smartest bikers are always thinking about whether or not they are positioned in a car driver’s blind-spot.
Although biking is a far less expensive activity than driving a car, the need to find bargains is still of paramount importance. Thankfully, finding a great motorcycle insurance deal with MCN Insurance will help to keep costs down. Regular preventative maintenance is also an excellent idea, because it can save a small fortune in the long run. Repair costs at accredited garages can be higher than you might think.
There is nothing to match the sense of unbridled freedom you get when you head off into the sunset on your bike, especially when you know there is a whole world out there just waiting to be explored. Whether you’re heading into the city for work or off to the sunspots of Spain for a biking holiday, you can garner far more enjoyment from the trip once you are confident enough to handle any journey.
