How To Ride on the Highway as a Beginner Rider

[@martindelrosario4676]

I literally gasped when Dan took his hands off the handlebars haha I’m still learning so haven’t gone up to freeway speeds yet.

[@kimberlyforrest8152]

I think what Im most fearful for getting on the highway is the potential need to brake suddenly or slow down quickly. Were you worried about this on your first time? How have you been doing lately? New rider here!

[@grahamsteckly9511]

Find a road with little or no traffic and practice braking. Start at a slower speed and work your way up in speed as you get used to braking harder and harder. Do not stab the brakes. Initially the forks on the bike need to compress a little which will increase the contact area of the front tire and give you all the traction you will need to brake hard. Practice often. If you need to brake hard you’ll be ready and won’t panic. Hope this is helpful. 🙂

[@SoulTheArtist]

I needed to see this video. I'm getting on the highway next week for the first time.

[@don8659]

About to get on the highway soon too. How was your first experience?

[@masonsteele1674]

Congratulations Nikki !! I'm glad that during your three minute ride that you realized that there is a lot more danger "in town" than there is "on the highway." I've ridden for a lot of years and I've never considered towns "motorcycle friendly."

[@johndonaldson4645]

It’s never a bad idea to learn a new skill I’m 47 and I’m still learning how to get it right always I’d say that saddle time and get used to your bike.

[@terezum]

This is how every beginner should learn how to ride, I bet it feels very reassuring to have a pro with you

[@MrJoshdude101]

Going to buy my first bike tomorrow and am riding it 2 hours home. Just completed my safety course last weekend!

[@bratva1354]

How did it go?

[@ElitePainting_EpoxyCoatings]

How was it?

[@Caden428]

Guys I think don’t think he made it back

[@nja3224]

You got balls bigger than me. I had to fight anxiety issues to get on my bike solo and take it out the first time after I passed the road test. No way did I feel I was ready for taking it on a parkway, nor did I want to. I lacked the courage and skills, and did not yet know my bike. You were probably miles ahead from where I was.

[@owloped405]

That was great getting to those speeds. I'm terrible on the interstate. It's not the wind for me. I feel like the front wheel is lifting. I can peak at 65 but can only maintain about 60. It's in my head. I'll try to take this advice and relax. But a useful skill as my hubby and I want to Travel North to the mountains and to get there in a reasonable time I need highway skills.

[@jilltarnoff5740]

You guys are helping me build my confidence, thank you

[@daleen4124]

You rock Nikki and Dan! I'm learning to ride and it is great to "go through" all the "firsts" with Nikki. Very helpful and I can relate. Thx guys .... all the way from Australia :-)

[@robinwelch9288]

Just picked up a triumph twin speed 900 last week. I've been crusing with traffic around where i live, but havent taken it on I-81 yet. I'm thinking tomorrow is gonna be the day!

[@OntarioAndrews415]

This is an awesome video. I loved the fact that you never forgot that she was about to ask a question as you always come back to it like "as you were saying" type of thing. You didn't talk over her. And she asked all the right questions too. I wasn't so sure about the on-ramp thing and I'm glad she came back to it and asked. I see this video is two years old, but I will go to your channel here and see what else might tickle my fancy. :) Good work you two. Cheers!

[@darrenperkins7069]

As a re entry rider I’m learning so much and can relate to the insecurities Nikki has, etc motorway travel.

[@elizabethbennett899]

This video was perfect for me, I'm currently learning and getting ready to commute on the highway to work! So thank you heaps for all the tips. Love From the land of Aus!

[@alskypearson9716]

You’re a great instructor. I wish I had someone like you when I started riding

[@pnoman316]

You guys are so great! Also, your wife sounds like Rachel McAdams when she talks. Your videos are very helpful to me. I've so far logged 237 miles and I haven't been on the freeway yet.

[@Kampayanajd]

That's learning experience from you guys is so awesome. I just landed on this video as I was searching for tips to ride on interstates. This came after I got a successful try today was my first riding to work. The wind was my biggest threat, and I wanted to know how I would deal with it on my way back 😀. Thanks for the video, it's so helpful and brings me more confidence.👍 By the way, I am still on my first month on the motorcycle 😂

[@kingatticus303]

Get it. Better rider than me. Just got a bike last week. Have not taken it on hiway yet. Just gotta do it.

[@SparkyHelper]

Looking forward to my first time on the interstate. Love how goofy you are in this one Dan.

[@vEeArr6]

I know this is 3yrs old but Amazing video. I’m south shore Massachusetts. Are highways suck with very very short on and off ramps.

[@PillowheadCreations]

I been having trouble going above 45 on my bike cuz afraid of wind 6:40 mark really helped me ty

[@dosfeos]

This was helpful to watch. I've been learning to ride in the high way as well an its all metal with wind still working mh way up slowly but so far so good. Thank you for these videos

[@jaz3942]

I really regret not getting a A Rebel 500 w ABS. I got one without and I feel like I’m to scared to ride it comfortably. So far I have only practiced in the parking lot and went one block around and almost lost control due to gravel contact. Ever since then I stayed in the parking lot. Any tips on getting fear out? Maybe you can make a video on how to handle e-way turns and or street/intersection turns? Hope to be on two wheels this season!

[@joiz938]

How did it go did u ever get out of the parking lot

[@davidjackson7741]

Abs don't help with gravel or sand it's anti lock braking system it keeps your tires slightly rotating instead of locking up and sliding... I've been riding for less than 2 weeks now got used to the controls and rode to work the next day check out be the boss of your motorcycle on KZbin he's got lots of great info for new riders and even experienced riders if it wasn't for his advise about friction zone and slow speed maneuvers

[@lorencarlos6803]

been riding for 6 months and did my first long ride from seattle to portland. watching dan's videos definitely boosts my confidence.

[@MrDiesel6201]

Use legs as a sail? Please explain

[@lindseyb8469]

I could see how nervous she was 😩 I'm a new female rider and my buddy tried to take me on the highway yesterday and I chickened out and kept right on going past the highway entrance lol I'll get there eventually! Good job girlfriend!

[@lamontwatts9398]

Great job teaching 👏 👍

[@bobbrownintruth]

3:20 I think this was a SHOEI helmet that someone scrapped the S and the I and spells HOE.... neat trick Dan. Not sure why I noticed that detail.

[@Shadow.Shot.Airsoft]

Wanted that rebel but no tac now I'm looking at the mto3 or cf moto450 for cummting to work

[@paulrockwood9757]

Every time I get on the highway I start to feel like I'm gonna pass out. I don't know if it's psychosomatic or a physical issue but when I'm going just as fast on any other road I feel fine.

[@Jhunbugz_650]

What I’m concerned about is body positioning. Like how should my back look? At an angle, straight, or leaning forward. Head? Tilted downward or facing straight. Arms? Slightly bent, really bent. I went on the highway for the first time today and when I got off on my exit. This guy said I looked really uncomfortable. I ride a 2024 Kawasaki z650. So it’s a naked sports bike. Thanks guys!

[@heatherdunham4562]

My husband just got a motorcycle after 20 years of not having one. As a passenger it’s been many years for me. I am amazed at the sound you have on your microphones etc. I am having a problem with the wind. I feel like I’m going to fly off the back. And even with our comm gadget I can barely hear him. Any suggestions for a backseater to deal with the wind?

[@milltary64vs5]

My biggest fear is potholes.... Going that fast just smash cut to Deadpool's intro scene flying through the air...

[@jasonsanderson9385]

My biggest worry is when a tractor trailer goes past you... does the wind from tractor trailers move you & bike around? If possible can you do a training video on passing trucks or trucks passing you

[@jasonsanderson9385]

Living in Jersey our on off ramps are short and tight for the most part, do you recommend going on parkway or turnpike with another rider for 1st time, also what do you recommend for exiting parkway example: going 75mph then getting off exit that goes into a tight turn off (like a jugh handle). Thank you for great after MSF class (basic every day)instruction videos

[@TakerToken]

Tractor trailers can produce a pretty big wind buffet depending on how they are oriented to you. If a large truck going the opposite way on a 2 lane road passes you , shortly after you will feel a big blast of air from the front. Large trucks on the side of you can block crosswinds but if they pull ahead of you, you will feel the crosswind suddenly. The worst position in my experience is right behind a large truck. The turbulent air behind the trailer can push your head back and forth a lot. Usually the bike is still stable, but it can be unnerving to feel your head move around. The best position I have found regardless of the situation is a tuck position. It eliminates most of these effects, and greatly reduces the buffeting if you are stuck behind a large trailer. Hope this helps!

[@jasonsanderson9385]

Thank you!!

[@knifetoucher]

Is that a Rebel 500 she's using?

[@arrowhead-dj]

One of my concerns when I get on the freeway especially here in Southern California is the uneven concrete. Especially since at many points I find traffic is doing over 75 miles an hour. It feels like sometimes the uneven roadway grabs my tire and causes me to track forcibly. Just makes me a bit uneasy at high speeds. Any suggestions or ideas to gain a schmidge more confidence?

[@charlesb1923]

Don't be afraid to safely switch riding position, the road is often times a wave you have to surf, don't hesitate to switch from left, center, and right lane positions to avoid uneven concrete. The roads will never be perfect, just keep searching the road ahead and adjust your riding safely and accordingly.

[@arrowhead-dj]

@@charlesb1923 Thank you - Well said - I've kinda done that and just wondered - was that correct - scan look ahead look ahead and stay YELLOW and ORANGE :-) Cheers!

[@justanotherviewer52]

Thanks for the video guys.

[@balkrishnaagrawal1064]

did anyone else find wind on helmet to be bothering while on freeway? I am a new rider and have been on freeway couple of times now, every time i feel wind will throw away my head. I will try forward lean next time. Any other suggestions are welcome

[@dogsnmotorcycles]

First time I rode on the freeway, I was expecting the wind, but there were large trucks ahead of me and I wasn't expecting the turbulence. There was also a cross breeze, so it was very unsettling. I still try to avoid riding behind trucks.

[@DaltonAnderson]

What mirrors do you have there Dan? Really digging the size + style

[@don8659]

Biggest thing getting me is the 4 on/off ramps i have to take are very sharp U turn like ramps. 2 uphill and 2 downhill. Only thing stopping me from taking it to work every day

[@joiz938]

How’s it going so far bud

[@peteyscopez2712]

Is that the Honda rebel 500? She is riding?

[@HannahTeddyRusso]

My biggest fear is hitting a big pot hole or tire debris, When you hit it with your car, imagine hitting it with your bike going down and the death wobble. Im at 80-90 miles now. That wind that moves your bike sideways is scary.

[@glenpilkey2643]

Great video!!

[@philmilligan7666]

What headset system is that? It’s so clear. My freecom is garbage 😂

[@frederickking1660]

You really need to look out as far as you can. Checking the road for debris or pothiles. I try to find a quiet spot traffic wise. Dont tailgate especially trucks. Tire debris or dead animals at highway speeds come spitting out and you cant miss them if you folllow too close.

[@Ghofy]

Bro the wind is insane

[@OutlawJesseJames]

Mine are semi's, second I don't like that floating feeling being a light weight on a bike

[@MichaelFerto-su7hp]

...The mirrors seemed like they could have been adjusted bettter....Anyway, lots of good stuff to know.....

[@Young937phoenix]

Idc the wind on the highway pushes me on my sport bike. Idk how I would be white knuckling it. One blow feels like it’s blowing u off the road..

[@MyMotorcycleObsession]

You should swap bikes and try it again, I noticed that her bike was a lot more shaky on the highway than yours. Driving that fast comfortably depends on a number of factors, your bike stability is a huge factor. My 2007 Dyna is not that stable above 65 mph because of my skinny front tire and terrible front suspension, although at slower speeds a skinny front tire makes it maneuver so much better. On a Goldwing you won't even notice you are going that fast LOL. Also, if you get a windscreen it is 90% easier, especially turning your head to check before a turn. A skinny front tire can make it difficult, I see you both have nice big front tires which helps a lot. I avoid going over 65 mph, my preferred speed to ride is 55, seems much more enjoyable to me. The road condition is also a big factor, going that fast and coming up on a lot of road damage can be terrifying. The other big factor is the wind, if you go 75 mph with 30 mph wind it will feel like you are going over 100 mph, especially terrifying if it's gusting.

[@mazda3jdm]

Great job, as a new rider is abs important? Or can one ride without it ?

[@sketchylandbeast4378]

It's important and helpful but you can absolutely learn without them you will just need to be more aware of your braking and practice it more.

[@italkgory99]

you don't need technology if you know proper technique. However, for those .1 percent of times where you may need it, it becomes very helpful

[@ZSmith-yy4lv]

I’d say it’s a good Idea to get ABS. It doesn’t hurt, and it just might save you.

[@dsiz9421]

It’s a good idea. But not necessarily important

[@dancoleman1269]

Curious, how is her camera aim controlled? I noticed some cool camera movement on her bike.

[@riding2nowhere]

No 360 cameras

[@Dark12315]

For me my fear is the fear of suddenly having to brake and some blockhead on their phone slamming into me on the highway or even an intersection as had almost happened this past week

[@doitdamnit]

Ok when do we learn the knee dropping thing?

[@dsiz9421]

Lol. He is overly cautious. It will backfire

[@DarrianKent]

Worst part about the interstate in my opinion is other vehicles

[@JCLabs]

This may have been covered in a previous video, but how many cc's is her bike?

[@quaddis7956]

471cc, Honda Rebel 500

[@dsiz9421]

Here we go with the cc guys

[@augurcybernaut4785]

Nice nice nice

[@x-man5056]

When you pass a car on a 2 lane, you should be in lane position 1 preferred, or 2, not 3. 3 puts you more in the blind spot of the vehicle you are passing. At 55+, you can cut across the lane quickly. If you approach cars/trucks from behind, the closer you are to the side of that vehicle, the more likely you are to be in their blind spot. Remember that if you are filtering moving cars.* They likely don't see you at all. Your lady friend is a doll, didn't here ANY whining. *illegal in many states.

[@ryanpark2049]

Oh they are closed Do you wanna practice your U turn? Lmao

[@Hubcity-vl5et]

She ate a bug .. she had her protein 😅

[@dustinlong9773]

I love the videos. But sometimes you’re are mid sentence and point out something random. I think ohh look a squirrel.

[@ZSmith-yy4lv]

Good way to train awareness. Pointing out every small detail.

[@travelinman482]

Wouldn’t a windshield help Nikki or anyone else overcome their fear of highway winds/riding?

[@pieterrossouw8596]

Does her SHOEI helmet say "HOE" 😂

[@x-man5056]

What does use your leg as a sail mean? Your girl didn't know, and still doesn't after the non-explanation explanation. So aggravating.

[@dsiz9421]

“Get into 6 gear” every sports guys ever…wtf?

[@Bumbaclot213]

Do you really want it screaming at 70mph in second on a motorway?

[@xdaytellem4ever]

does her helmet say "HOE"??

[@xocoyotl4]

Is your girlfriend black?

[@Bumbaclot213]

I’ll happily get up to 120mph at Brand’s Hatch, push as hard as I can, but bloody hate motorways - it’s all the wind, especially cross winds, pushing the bike across the lane