Feel Safer And Gain Confidence On Your Motorcycle - Advice For Beginner Riders

Gaining confidence on your first motorcycle can take time. Some of you might not feel comfortable riding in traffic or taking corners as a beginner rider. In this weeks video, I share with you some advice on how to build confidence on your motorcycle and feel safe while doing it.

[@joanpalin3507]

Thank you. I’m 63 and just got a 50 cc ruckus. I’m practicing in my parkade. Your video is so helpful.

[@dc6958]

Another episode packed with words of wisdom 🙏. Just passed my beginners course and planning to get my M1 license next!

[@Greenfalcons55]

I thought only me in the world have panic to ride on road as a begginer with my motorbike, glad to see I have more friends in the same boat 😁🤦‍♂️ thank you for sharing 🙏

[@MILITARYMOTO]

Definitely

[@iallso1]

I bought my first bike a little over 2 years ago and with one exception have ridden it in all the gear all the time, on that one occasion I was doing some work around the house and need to make a purchase from the local DIY store so went out in jeans. I was amazed at how cold I got and how quickly. I also ride a scooter for work, during one ride I rear ended a car and banged my knees. I was wearing works uniform, cargo pants, it was low speed, I stayed upright, but banged my knees. I suffered bursas on both knees that were painful for about a month. I feel luck that the accident and injuries weren't more severe. Now I wear motorcycle pants with knee protection for every ride, regardless of the bike I'm on. ATGATT.

[@92Cuky_]

When I had a scooter my exhaust once did start to make weird sounds while riding. I checked it out and saw that it had quite a large hole on the side towards the wheel. So I patched it up a bit and just went to do a lap around my parking lot to check if it sounds normal. It was about 150-200 meters ride and it was the first and last time I went on a scooter or a bike without a helmet. I felt so weir, almost naked. Since I got a bike I always had all the gear except pants. It was quite hard for me to find a pair that fits me at waist, while not being too long and not having protectors at the spot they should be on. Last week I just had a day off and went to visit a friend who lives in a city about 4 hours driving away. While there I visited few shops and have found myself a pair of pants that fits well. Finally able to ATGATT :D

[@gmoney1592]

This is a great video. I really like your laid back no pressure ride within your abilities approach.

[@jayphive2468]

Fall is so nice! It's the green, yellow, orange, and red trees.

[@domcarr1973]

Great video, and spot on words. As an older guy just learning to ride (#midlifecrisis) this chimes with me. I don't want to be the fastest on the block, but just develop new skills without scaring myself to death. Nice to see someone has put this together and put it out there for people to learn from. Leave the ego at home and enjoy the ride without putting pressure on yourself. Don't worry about fluffed gear changes. I'm going to go out tomorrow, find a car park and really practice the slow maneuvers stuff off the back of this advice. Then take a ride (sensibly) on my favourite road - I am getting to know my bike - like 8 rides in now, but need to keep mindful and not get complacent. Thanks GS.

[@GasWorksISO]

Thank you for watching and your comment. Ride safe!

[@jayroley81]

This is really good and comforting advice. I have my fears of starting to ride, but I also know I might get too confident, and I know my friends will probably take off without considering I'm new or saying "when I started, I just took off." But with this video, I feel ok with just taking it slow and methodical. Building up my skill before trying anything above my comforts. THANK YOU!

[@TheBeavil]

Your friends should put you up front and ride respectfully behind you when new. Otherwise they arent worth being friends with

[@TheTrojanMichael]

2021 just had my first "incident" and it is true the speed limit is the safest speed Good work on the video mate 👍👍

[@masonsteele1674]

"The speed limit is the safest speed" is a blanket statement that isn't always true. It doesn't take into account visibility issues (like night driving, weather or driving into the sunset). Also when the flow of traffic exceeds the speed limit turning you into a roadblock (I've never gotten a ticket for driving with the flow of traffic). "The speed limit is the safest speed" is a good start, but like many things, should remain a flexible idea.

[@RideOnTwo]

Great video bud, good tips and perfect delivery. As an experienced rider of 40 years I can confirm that most if not all of these can apply to experienced riders as well. 👍

[@RideOnTwo]

@PaPa-D hey buddy, how is PaPa-D doing?

[@bmartin7961]

Totally agree. We don't stop learning until we die ;)

[@bmartin7961]

Thanks again Gas Man for this ;) It does not matter how long we've been riding, reminders are great and we can always learn something new from others. I am riding cautiously at the moment. I'm on a bike that is 500 miles new to me, the stock tires many people have complained about in the wet or slippery surfaces, and the road is not a race track...so I take it easy for now and the tips you present are great value to keep me focussed on that. In addition, your tone of voice/presentation style is very mature and easy going, a pleasure to listen to..and what a place you ride in, wonderful scenery and colours...hey puppy lol ...Thank you for sharing :)

[@14moldyhamsandwich]

the part just prior to 9 mins.....regarding doing some of your own work , familiarizing yourself with your bike mechanically is spot on. knowledge is prerequisite to survival . live it learn it . another great vid w the smoothest delivery , by far. be safe everyone !

[@MrJkfamilyguy59]

Perfect Advice & Common Sence. Nothing else needs to be said except thank you.

[@rickybelmont9651]

In group rides we tend to put the least experienced person upfront to pace set and the most experienced second and then the rest of us.. its helps the beginner gain confidence and gives them abit of responsibility too

[@williamrtorres1182]

This guy knows what he's talking about I've been riding for a couple years and learning safety is everything when you ride

[@melodyzazueta1432]

Thank you for the info, as a first time rider AND a girl, this makes me feel at ease. I felt ashamed because I was riding with my emergency lights on and a bit under the speed limit but I also don’t want to ride above my limit.

[@crystalsnyder3741]

Great video!! Your insights are so helpful. I am a new female rider and turned 40-something and decided to make this dream reality. Your vids are sooo helpful and i appreciate you putting so much time and effort into the channel!!

[@GasWorksISO]

Thank you for the kind words!

[@marianix1591]

Oh I love this video. You have the best attitude. I’m only on the road two weeks and I’ve so much to learn and am very nervous getting on my KTM, but I want to get better. Your calm demeanour is just what I needed. Thank you

[@mnnic4292]

Comon sense from someone that understands what riding is all about. 👍

[@topherdalrymple6535]

You are a humble and intelligent guy, no BSA or ego, great work.

[@orangecone333]

I now consider you my post-riders school teacher. I am so grateful to be hearing your advice on finding a favorite road and riding tour own ride. It's all so incredibly helpful. I'm on month 5 on a HD street 750 in Los Angeles. I can use all the advice you can give. I'm binge watching your channel friend!

[@GasWorksISO]

Thank yo so much for watching!

[@valentinocorrea4111]

It totally reminds me of the West Hills of Portland Oregon. The Pacific Northwest is beautiful like that in the Fall season. Thanks for the awesome video for beginner riders.

[@johnwoods9428]

You’ve nailed it yet again with this video. It’s a relief to know I’m not alone with my experiences whilst learning to ride. All the best mate, keep up the good work 👍

[@kingfisherphil]

Lots of wisdom, much appreciated, the pearls you give are missed by many trainers.

[@pthunell]

As a brand new rider that just bought my first bike, this video is really hit home. Great advice. Nice work. You've got my sub.

[@ralphdenis3449]

Way to keep it simple and honest. I look forward to your next video.

[@fatman2570]

Great episode love your wisdom and thinking, a bike is for enjoyment not to get killed on, I'm just getting back into biking after 40 yrs.

[@Tashin32]

All very true. As a new rider myself (4 months now and counting) all of these tips have helped me greatly. Low speed maneuvering has also let me beat a few more seasoned riders around corners and turns. You get to learn and trust the bike and know it won't dump you when you're doing certain things. If you can do it slow, you can do it fast and usually better than others that never do it slow.

[@GasWorksISO]

Well said.

[@lowtech67]

Great Video with some good advice for anyone that will listen. I agree with you too btw.. Love this time of year, hate the temperature. I've never heard it put better!

[@gasman6922]

Love the work on your own bike comment. It’s so true. Between KZbin and other chat sites you can do pretty much everything you need to do. I draw the line when I need specialty tools to make a fix. Cheers. Sad day...looking at the weather I think I’m done for the season. 8400km not bad for a newbie. Holding out on winterizing my Vulcan S until the snow flies.

[@mason3307]

Thanks. I'm the exact same way as to why I decided to start riding.

[@illhaqu777]

I really appreciate your videos, clear voice, lot's of wisdom to spread for noobs like me and you got some nice and chill music in the background.

[@hardworkingamerican8847]

Totally agree with you . Most of what you said I started doing and am still doing as a newer rider . I have ridden quads in Baja and friends dirt bikes here and there but I finally bought my own motorcycle last fall . Maybe shouldn't say fall when talking about riding , hmm . Anyway I cruise around my small town practicing starts and stops shifting through the gears proper turns etc . Lots of 1st and 2nd gear stuff . When I start out I hit the first intersection and turn uphill doe a block and take a sharp turn that levels out . I will go around the block until I take that turn in such a way as to not hit a parked car that may be on the other side . Sometimes I get it ok on the first try other times I end up too close to the other curb . Also I find that when I ride with a fair bit of intensity and bit of aggression the situation is in more control . It's not speeding or recklessness it's more of me telling myself alright c'mon let's go , I hold the bars tighter put more weight on the pegs squeeze the tank with my knees and get my but off the seat a bit . When I get like that the bike does what I want to do for the most part . It's like when as a kid and you were learning to take a jump and you get ready and focus pull up some and fly a bit then brace for the landing . I get that same feeling and have that same attitude . Then there are times where things are more routine and I can relax a bit and look around at what and why I ride for in the first place . So once again very good advice hope your viewers will take it !

[@franccescomenacho9087]

Just got my first bike and am completely new at riding and this video really helped. Thank you for the great tips!

[@CyclesandThings]

Great and slow video, just gotta build those skills and setup that good foundation with fundamentals. Never exceed your ability, stay safe out there man!

[@ThePat1962]

Thanks again. I concur with all you say. I know I need to get back to car park practice. Emergency braking and u turns etc. Especially on a cruiser. Looking out for my second bike presently. Possibly a Kawasaki Z650.

[@markchristianson8178]

Nicely said so true . I quit group rides for that reason riding is so much fun .

[@johnpagejr.7628]

I am impressed with your way of giving beginner instruction. Very good job! Keep up the good work and I will definitely refer others and beginners to your channel.

[@doitdamnit]

I agree with all of your topics and experiences! Thanks for sharing with us!

[@anettedouglasdotter]

Thank you so much for this wonderful video! ❤ You are a brilliant teacher, so easy to understand - and all you say make complete sense! ❤ Greetings from Sweden! 🇸🇪

[@OverBanned]

“The colors on this bushes and trees are beautiful” Me, the colorblind watcher: huh?

[@ItsAndrewProductions]

Well you’re missing out!

[@Spenc083]

Hello GW, thanks for sharing the knowledge, I purchased a used Honda CB500F and after having it delivered I noticed tape around the tip of the clutch lever. I ordered replacement levers but after having the bike serviced, I was informed by the tech that OEM clutch lever was the best options due to the clutch configuration on the 2022 Honda CB500F. The part was only $19.00 so I just had the OEM lever installed rather than the designer levers that I purchased. Again, great video for us newbs!!!

[@jonathanvermillion7263]

Thank you 🙏been riding a month and I’m moving right along!

[@mauvaisfilms3589]

thank you very much for that video ! support from France-Paris ! Keep doing the good job and stay bless

[@bradleys6466]

Thanks for this. Had my license since I was 22, but took about 10 years off because of moving and job. Now getting back into it, everything feels like using my left-hand (opposite) to write.

[@waynecharlton954]

I couldn't have narrated that any better your 100 % correct ridesafe

[@dannytrudell6798]

Great words of wisdom. Ride safe my friend and God bless

[@victoriamamunog]

Thank you for these video! Your words are really motivating especially for a begginer like me 😌😌 helps me to be motivated and gain confidence i needed to go out on a highway.

[@harryhall6852]

Just thinking about getting back into biking after about 30 years so thanks for this advice

[@DR4WZ]

Do it! The world needs more bikers!

[@texaskenny2]

That's me! I haven't ridden since 1985! I remember it was a Yamaha Virago 750 that belonged to a friend of mine.I'm really enjoying all the research videos but I still haven't bit the bullet and purchased one yet. Everyone says I should buy something small and light to get back into the groove on. I hadn't really thought about a Honda Grom. Does anyone have any insight on the subject?

[@DR4WZ]

@@texaskenny2 I started on a Honda Grom a year ago, grew out of it and got a Ninja 400 this year. Still have my Grom but don't ride it much anymore. I would suggest starting on a 600.

[@James-cn9no]

I am just getting back after 30 years too. I've committed to parking lot skills practice in my immediate neighborhood until I can control my bike at slow speed in the parking lot executing skills practice. Following MotoJitsu's program. I am not getting out on to the mean streets until I can control my bike at the brown belt level in the program. Already laid my bike down twice in the parking lot and scratched it up a little, but I know what I did wrong and actually gained a lot of confidence from the mistakes. It's a little scary getting back, but exhilarating too. Good advice in this video.

[@camgere]

Welcome back. You don't stop riding motorcycles because you got old. You got old because you stopped riding motorcycles. The biggest intellectual challenge in retirement is riding my motorcycle in traffic and the twisties. Braking marker, corner turn in, apex, corner exit, radius, camber, elevation and traction (wet leaves or asphalt on a warm summer afternoon). Lowest risk, space is life, traffic flows, situational awareness. The gears in your brain will be spinning like your crankshaft.

[@MILITARYMOTO]

I appreciate all you were talking about in this video I have been only been riding for a couple months.. and I'm to hit the streets. Because I'm about to get it checked and I'm alil nervous...thanks again

[@nickteach6659]

Thank you for the tips about practicing and starting very slowly like learning an instrument-that really clicked. I will be thinking about this on my next ride.

[@themotorcyclemaiden9162]

Great advice and just the video that I needed to hear today. I recently upgraded to a Honda rebel 500 and I know I can ride it I’ve only had it for a few weeks but my confidence for some reason or another just is getting the best of me. I need to get on that bike and do exactly what you’re talking about. Get familiar with this bike. My other bike is a Honda rebel 250 and I could tear the streets up with that but with this one it’s gonna take me a little time. I appreciate the advice that you gave, great video!

[@nataliamelendez2514]

RIDE YOUR OWN RIDE. I was introduced to bikes by my friends who do crazy stunts. I was so impatient with my progress because I wanted so bad to be as comfortable as them but you can’t rush that. Ever. It just doesn’t work. I rushed and put myself on roads I wasn’t comfortable with and really hurt myself one time. It’s been a while I’m all fine now but I’ve been slower on my approach this time. And I feel amazing now! At my own pace. It’s not a race for who can do the baddest fastest. It’s just you and your bike

[@theGiantworm86]

I got my bike about a year ago. Haven't been further than some of the back roads around my house. Still getting used to it. But I'll get there eventually, I'm in no hurry.

[@samreh6156]

Love your channel. Much smarter than most.

[@sativa800]

I really like how you explain everything. Big thanks!

[@andresarana724]

One more time exelent, thanks and God bless you.

[@Live_Inspired_Style]

Very helpful. Your patient energy is quite refreshing. You would be an excellent rider coach.

[@peterv1806]

Such sage advice!!! Thank you.

[@damianprescott9256]

Awesome mate I think you are doing a fantastic job explaining the things that need to be explained. Well done

[@shelinaselmon6876]

Absolutely love and appreciate your videos I subscribed to your video feed love the laid back approach you have and the advice is solid as a new rider myself this is helpful

[@GasWorksISO]

Thank you for watching!

[@PaulaNowling]

Thanks, I needed to hear this today. All good advice.

[@GasWorksISO]

Thank you for watching. Ride safe!

[@RioterRides]

Good stuff!! Only time I don't have full gear on would be on my way staright to work and back.

[@williamparker9713]

Excellent video. I will be getting my bike in a few months so this information is very helpful. Thank you

[@katehovatter3498]

Buying my first bike Wednesday, this really helped!

[@keithbloom1476]

Very simply put...great video....keep the vids coming!!

[@mohammedrahman3447]

Another awesome vlog. Also, where are you riding bud? The landscape is beautiful! And your points on gaining confidence is spot on. Although I myself haven't started riding yet and my brand new bike is sitting in the garage waiting for spring to come I'm not a new driver and everything you said made so much sense to me.

[@GasWorksISO]

Yakima Wa.

[@DJAMESROOM]

Good video , common sense advice. I'm getting into biking after about 30 years, after riding motocross as a young man. i am a little hesitant because my confidence level is low, as i was never a street rider. i do know how to handle a bike, but its still different. Im purchasing a 2018 Kawasaki Vulcan s, new. i appreciate your video, and have subscribed.

[@gumerdominguez4091]

Sir you are one of the best 👍👍👍you nailed right on the spot thank you sir for your help

[@xPinx]

Thank you buddy for the advice

[@tynix1]

Excellent advises! Even the champions was newbies at a point...

[@BootsandJeansRiders]

Good video, and advice. Just had thin conversation today at our chapter meeting. BTW beautiful fall colors.

[@realitycheque2854]

Great advice, great video.

[@Robnoxious77]

The speed limit thing is why I prefer naked bikes these days. You are constantly aware of your speed when it’s hitting you in the chest

[@GasWorksISO]

Good point. 😄

[@timwilsononline]

Really solid advice. Great video!

[@arkantos006]

Memorise the controls.. this is a very good advice !

[@jimpayneadv]

Yes I certainly agree with riding at your confidence level. That is when motorcycle riding is fun, safe and relaxing. When riding with groups ... ride how you like to ride. Sometimes I have to tell others that I am a slow rider and I will catch up.

[@GasWorksISO]

Nothing wrong with being a slow rider. It’s safer. I’m a do the speed limit kind of rider myself. Any thing that increases the odds of avoiding accidents is what I’m all about, because I intend on riding for a very long time.

[@Abolistable]

I'm 36 and bought my 1st bike sorta on empulse and it sat for about a week as I was pretty nervous about riding it. I work really wonky hours at a state job so a MSF course wasn't an option, if I was gonna do it I had to do it myself. I quit drinking because I found I was getting into the habit of using the old " after work beer, ohh shucks, can't drive now" as an excuse not get out there and try it. Eventually I just forced myself out to our little road and... it all just worked. Bike didn't fall, my 1st turn was a low speed u turn and ... nothing happened, bike obeyed me and then I felt it dogging down so I went to shift and....it shifted lol. So now every day when I get off I do this course around town. Some days I go left, some days right, some days I ride to the river to have a smoke when it's really early and the river has that sweet low fog on it. But God...I was terrified at the start.

[@josealvarado8964]

I enjoy your videos keep up the good work words to live by 👍🏽

[@my2wheels]

Excellent advice!!!👍👍👍👍

[@asadkamran5687]

Thanks gas work garage ur tips have improved my riding skills

[@pennsyltuckyden9823]

Lots of great advice right here.

[@Imsurethishasnotbeentaken]

Wise words!

[@robnoodle1]

Thanks for the encouragement

[@speedyzues265]

Yes ! Yes ! Yes and yess ! Grate video man !

[@josephleister9198]

Great video...lots of great information, thank you.

[@ausamzar7632]

Thanks man, you really helped me

[@afuaboahema4649]

Great I will give it a try this weekend

[@gtukiole]

Thanks for that. Great vid 👍

[@r.o.c.4545]

Golden. Thanks, a million.👌

[@bmwrider1931]

Good old Scenic Drive. I did a lot of the landscaping up there. Great content. 🏍

[@GasWorksISO]

It’s beautiful this time of year.

[@bmwrider1931]

Absolutely I miss home. If Airlift will ever transfer me I will be back. This Seattle life gets to one.

[@owengrant9206]

I went for my license. Never ridden a bike before. I was told to come back another time. I felt so disheartened I didn’t go back. They give you a few chances. But on day 1 I didn’t go back. I wanna give it another go!

[@amymartin5578]

Between the encouraging and wise advice, the laid-back friendly approach, and the beautiful scenery, this makes for a most pleasant and satisfying view. Where IS this amazing place? The squirrel!

[@GasWorksISO]

Yakima Washington.

[@AceHardy]

Good deeds 🙌💯

[@ChuffIed]

im in the process of trying to tame my zzr 1200, i think getting some track practice over a weekened would be fantastic, a great place to getting more comfortable with higher rpms. better on a track than on public roads. i recommend the same for anyone new to riding or has gotten themselves a litre bike or any sports bike really, find some lessons to take at your nearest track.

[@GasWorksISO]

Too bad the nearest track to me is several hundred miles away...☹️

[@swarupdeysarkar4753]

Nice idea to drive on your own and learn by yourself....that will certainly make one under stand the machine wel...it would be nice if u can make video on slow speed stuffs....

[@bootz0409]

Excellent vid with very easy listening tone of voice and instructions/advice. Beautiful neighbourhood you were riding through... where is that? Anyway, if I lived near you, we would be riding buddies because I also avoid the knuckleheads who crave the need for speed. The view along the way and pure enjoyment of the ride is my incentive to get out there. 😀👍

[@lynnhoskins5286]

thanks man so ture

[@Lucas-yy3dh]

What a great video!

[@TheRmoroni]

good advice thanks!

[@beachman6950]

I enjoyed your video, it was clear and informative. I'm not sure if you mentioned what type of bike you have or not and I missed it? I am 53 and thinking of taking up riding for the first time, I am doing ample loads of research as this is one of the biggest decisions of my life. I grew up with a nurse that scared the poop out of me at an early age regarding motorcycles. Thanks again for your informative video!

[@GasWorksISO]

I’m riding a Honda Grom in the video.