My FIRST Motorcycle Ride (Day 2 Learning How To Ride A Motorcycle)

[@Mirage502]

Thanks!

[@RidewithRea]

oh my gosh did you just send a super thanks!? THANK YOU!! 😊😊

[@ronaldguerrieri3993]

You go girl. This gentleman talking to you has the right tone of voice for this first timer.

[@sarahdobsin6748]

What a calm, positive instructor. Good work, proud of you!

[@oscars6030]

Gee ppl.. I read the first 10 comments and no one could tell her how amazing she did for day 2 only. Everything else comes later .. I’m sure her guy told her all of those dad comments.. which are great but please praise her!!! You did amazing.. applause 👏

[@tebo2004]

Im 38 and I started riding back in April of this year.. that turn she pulled 9ff was one of the main probs for the majority of my class that took the MSF course. So I can say I'm impressed with how well she pulled it off. I used to ride the hell out of that clutch to make them.. and had to get used to turning my head in the direction I wanted to go. So Bravo Sis!!! U handled it well.

[@ArmageddonAfterparty]

Relaxed vibes from the sansei are a joy to behold.

[@TheNintendoFanBoy01]

As a Motorcycle instructor from Australia may I offer some ideas. First Left foot ALWAYS down when taking off or stopping. Because your right foot is where your back brake is. Your back brake is your control of your bike. So always left foot down for take off and stops. Your FRONT brake is NOT your control of the bike DO NOT let anyone tell you otherwise. Next on your take off I have not yet watched your first video but most people teach themselves this order to take off: foot off brake, twist throttle, drop clutch into it. Problem with this take of is on a hill you will roll back freak out take your foot off the brake snatch at the front brake and probably just about drop your bike. The FAR better way to take off is while the engine is idling let your clutch out till your engine revs die down (not enough to stall the bike) and you feel the bike wanting to push forward through the brake (which as this stage the foot brake should still be pressed on....) then add a small amount of revs so the bike doesnt stall and then add 1 to 2 mm of more clutch release DO NOT RELEASE the clutch all the way hold it at this point, at this point let your foot off the brake and you will start to go forward, left foot on the peg and away you go, at this point AND only at this point THEN let the clutch all the way out... Do not let your clutch all the way out until your left foot is on the peg and you are rolling comfortably. I promise as an instructor if you practice taking off like this you will never want to go back to the other way of taking off as you are in control of the bike not the bike in control of you. AND you will have less stalls!!! Finally and I am hoping you have already worked this out or the person talking to you told you.... If you look at a curb when turning you will hit a curb when turning..... LOOK where you want to go not at what you dont want to hit.... Cause Guaranteed you will hit it.

[@baddmint]

HI Brit here for U-Turns focus on the centre of the otherside of the road and keep your head turned towards it and your arms will follow its called target fixation and slip the clutch with a closed throttle it will give you more manageable power and stop you over revving. Shoulder checks we call the life savers before turning or change lanes and stay in the command position the centre of your lane it will force cars trying to overtake you into traffic and ost of all have fun and stay safe.

[@halcyon_studio]

I watch a lot of motovlog content, and I have to say I am very impressed with how well-composed your videos are. Good luck on your journey!

[@RidewithRea]

Thank. you so much!! :)

[@natfurtop]

Please spend lots of time practicing prior to riding out in traffic. You should be able to stop, shift, and turn without too much thought or hesitancy before adding the element of traffic. And as your mentor stated, always always always expect and anticipate other drivers to not see you. Be safe and enjoy your journey, riding is a blast and I love it, it’s truly cathartic!!!

[@RidewithRea]

Yes thank you! I will be taking it very slow and I'm in no rush to start driving in traffic. I will definitely be practicing a lot more until I feel absolutely comfortable. Driving on the road is so unpredictable and I want to be able to handle any situation before I start.

[@AdamMalcolm96]

I'd recommend a course, if you haven't taken one already. I learned more than I thought I would, but they had a closed off course and a bike provided so there was no worry of cars or dropping a bike. Enjoy!

[@i_CTingz_Clearly]

For beginner help with tips and drills… Watch motojitsu, be the boss of your motorcycle, Mcrider, doodle on two wheels, Dan Dan the fire man. I got a Honda rebel about a month ago and just hit 100 miles as a beginner rider. That’s from practicing slow maneuvering drills in the parking lot and riding about 3 miles outside of my home on different routes. Good luck! Stay safe, wear protective gear .. practice practice practice and you’ll do great.

[@RidewithRea]

Thank you so much! I’ve been watching Dan Dan the fire man! I’ll check out the other channels 😊

[@fatdmk168]

It is time to open motogymkhana)

[@bopryszlak3863]

@@RidewithRea and take a motorcycle beginner course. A lot of veteran riders could benefit from periodic riding courses.

[@Blackhart50]

Only winter cloves are longer and summer gloves are short great video remember to look before U go in that direction and your bike will go there and head Up don't look down go Girl U got it

[@233kosta]

The clutch thing takes a bit of getting used to. It's designed to slip and it's designed to be very progressive as you let out the lever. It's worth practicing that. Just while stationary, add a touch of power (just above idle) and slooooowly let out the clutch. You should feel the power coming on very smoothly. That feeling is tied to your left hand. The more you practice - the better you'll get at noticing it, anticipating it and being smooth with it. Same goes for the throttle. It's smooth and progressive, but also sensitive, so you must be smooth with it. Practice holding a set rpm while stationary and in neuteal. Practice also getting to said rpm as smoothly as possible (rather than jumping on it) and rolling off back to idle the same way. If there's no rev counter, use the engine sound to guide you. If you're downshifting or slow on the upshift, it's ok to let the clutch out extra slow and allow the engine time to pick up, but it helps to give it just a bit of power to ease it up the rpms. I also tend to find it a bit smoother to have the engine going just a bit faster than it needs to be. That avoids the off/on jerkiness. You should never feel the need to jump off the clutch. Use it like you have all the time in the world. Focus on being smooth, the speed will come on its own ;)

[@RidewithRea]

Thank you so much for this!!! I’m going to practice more start & stop drills to get a better understanding of the engine sounds. This was very helpful

[@233kosta]

@@RidewithRea You're more than welcome! Always happy to help a rider out. Wasn't too long ago when I was in your shoes. By the way, I recommend an empty car park for this sort of thing rather than a public road. Because traffic. Cars "trying to get somewhere" and especially ones which need to be there yesterday have a way of putting a lot of pressure on you just through their mere existence, and that is highly counterproductive when you're trying to focus on understanding the machine and learning to control it. The whole "all the time in the world" thing starts to fall apart at that point. In addition to sound, once you're moving also try to get used to picking up on engine feel. Because this bike has a cable throttle, you can get a lot of feedback on whether the engine is struggling or not just by the correlation between how much throttle you're having to use and how the bike is accelerating. The feel you're going for is "easygoing", that will tell you what gear to be in. Good luck out there, and remember to have fun!

[@_dragonkisses777]

The lil boots lol you're so cute, oh and the jacket! I really love it, fun video to watch! thank you for sharing it

[@Chope7031]

Would love an entire video on how you changed from this shifting/gear understanding to the current day - what would you tell yourself or do differently then to help that click ? Love your change in content it is so fun to watch you progress :)

[@RidewithRea]

This is such a great idea!! Thank you ☺️

[@ljoelmchanley3676]

Thanks for the video, you're doing great! Biggest lesson I learned 40 some years ago is look farther ahead down the road while your peripheral handles the rest. This keeps me on track smoothly to my intended line of travel and comes into play during a U-turn by turning my head and looking ahead down the road. This also relates to the dreaded target fixation crashes where a rider focuses on an object in the road or focuses on the ditch going hot into a corner and rides right into the object/ditch. I have to always look ahead where I want to go because where yah look yah go. I absolutely never focus on what I need to avoid, I glance and stay focused on my intended/necessary line down the road.

[@RidewithRea]

Thank you!!😊

[@TheNintendoFanBoy01]

Fantastic statement Beautifully said!!!!!

[@ljoelmchanley3676]

@@TheNintendoFanBoy01 thank you!

[@philippausawm]

I struggle the same with you when you turn, keep looking at where you want to go but not where the curb is.

[@paguilar5520]

Arrow slip-on. Practice! Practice! Practice. Always ride safe Rea!

[@lcarlson7725]

LOVE this video/journey. Just subscribed! I'm a first time motorcycle owner who just turned 60 - too old for a "mid-life crisis" yet found myself perusing the ads on Facebook Marketplace and BOOM - I found a 2006 Suzuki Boulevard C50T. It was love at first sight. What followed was hours of KZbin videos which gave me the impression this is a decent bike with many fans. I bought it for $2200 w 22,000 miles. I've got a lot to learn so I subscribed. I have been driving it up and down my dead-end road at the blistering speed of 10-15 mph. I haven't taken it on public roads yet...and I'm not going to until I get to feeling comfortable w this small step. I really like how you are learning to ride and I respect your teacher for taking you through the process in small steps. I'm copying!!!!

[@RidewithRea]

Hi! Aww thank you so much ☺️ I love that you are also on this beginner riding journey! Good luck to you and safe riding 😊

[@justink3680]

I'd suggest a set of highway bars/ crash bars because drops happen. It's not a matter of if its just when. The bars will protect your tank from dents or road rash.

[@catbread8533]

i love this so much!! I want to get into riding bikes myself but seeing all these cool people being so good at riding was a little discouraging for me. I was afraid to start at all because I would make a fool of myself.. but watching you is soo motivating and reminds me that it's ok to not be perfect on the first try! thank you so much! I wish more people would make content like that! much love and be safe out there ❤️

[@RidewithRea]

It's totally okay!!!! Everyone has to start somewhere and most people like to just show themselves after skipping all the awkward learning beginning bits. But it's normal! Good luck to you and I hope you have a great time riding!

[@OneStepBeyondu]

Dave is walking Rea through the basics of motorcycle riding. I've been riding for over 45 years and at the beginning of each season (or if I haven't ridden in a while) I revisit them again myself. Never be afraid to start your basic training because you think you lack skill. Even experienced riders like me benefit from reviewing them time to time.

[@lonniehawkins582]

Don't let looking cool stop you from being cool .if you want to be cool believe in yourself .just be cool at your own pace, tell detractors to stay in there lane . Your doing this for you not anyone else . You got this and will be cool because you don't give up . No one can put it in you and no one can take it from you . You are awesome remember that .

[@lonniehawkins582]

@@OneStepBeyondu been riding my while life ,and you are correct about going over some things .every spring on thar first ride I test myself in the basics and take it slow the first couple times out .this is good advice ,to practice basic procedures and skill levels .it all comes back quickly but on two wheels. You need to brush up on things before you get ahead if yourself .and it's. Constant thing in always staying aware .

[@stoneyoutdoors8819]

listen.... ive seen dudes who "know what they are doing" struggle with u turns worse than that. your off to a fantastic start!!!!! and great job on the teaching, obviously you did well!!!!!

[@earlwilliams5473]

You'll be fine. Your a natural. Remember the first 2 years are the most dangerous years. Stay safe and make a life time of GOOD riding memories...

[@jennyhough8012]

SO excited I found you! Getting ready to get my Rebel 500 and my permit. Loved seeing someone that went through my journey!

[@RidewithRea]

That's so exciting!! Good luck to you!

[@SsgtHolland]

First just learn to shift down with the clutch only, nice and slow. You can add revving the throttle later, just for style points.

[@paulws58]

Hats off to you and your instructor. You did great at everything and I think your instructor is very patient and knowledgeable.

[@rogersmith5371]

In the last video I commented on the need for the safety gear. I'm pleased to see you have some now. Gloves and a jacket are important. Later on when you are out on the road at high speed you'll need to keep the wind out as well as provide protection in case of a fall. I don't know where you are or what the weather is like but cold even on a sunny day can lead to fatigue and mistakes. Good to see a full face helmet. You're making good progress.

[@Bigfoot2025]

Good luck Rea! Please, Please Please take a MSF riding course. BTW who ever recommended that riding jacket and gloves did you wrong. Your lower back is exposed and the leather is not adequate. Don't buy your gear on the internet. Go to your local motorcycle super store or dealer and buy quality gear that fits you correctly and provides real crash protection. If your game plan is to mimic a hot babe one percenter, forget all my advise - a bandana , tattoos and cargo paints will magically save your ass. Stay safe. ;)

[@pibe8761]

The good and reliable Rebel, great choice to learn and mod. Welcome to the riding world, will look forward for more videos. Ride safe 🤙

[@Dragoninja833]

In U-turns you wanna give it a little throttle mile modulating the clutch and the rear brake. This will give you torque to get through the turn without stalling or increasing your speed. Drifting through uturns causes people to panic break if they slow down too much, resulting in people dropping their bike. Also that jacket will not protect you, and nor will those pants. Great gloves and helmet though!

[@123mirc]

Boots and pants are important too. For the jacket it is important that you have protection for your elbow. I have bought full gear, before getting my driver's permit. First you must practice the slow maneuvers a lot, like figure 8-s and emergency braking, and with time you definitely should take intermediate / advanced courses. Ride safe!

[@rogerparliman1892]

When you are turning look where you want the bike to good and keep looking at it until you finished your turn.

[@all1nerd377]

Not kidding but you have inspired me to finally take my CBT (UK version of MSF)! Wanted to for years but just procrastinated. Keep this channel going, its informative and genuine. Thank you for the inspiration!

[@RidewithRea]

Aww that's so awesome to hear! That makes me so happy. Good luck to you on your course!!

[@maxd11111]

how did it go? I got mine in a couple weeks

[@dannodog]

Fantastic! Welcome to the club! You're doing great. Keep the Shiney side up and enjoy the ride!

[@dahomiekrillz]

Having fun watching these because I am new to motorcycles and about to buy a 2023 Rebel 500. I've never been on any motorized bike ever but I am a great cyclist so I have the balance, and I've only owned stick shift vehicles my entire life so I understand the connection between clutch and throttle! I just gotta get my hands to coordinate with my feet! Great job btw!! Keep it up!

[@RidewithRea]

that's so exciting! congrats on getting the new rebel 500 :)

[@nateriver5114]

@Jesus Cardenas you seriously recommending a 1100cc bike to a beginner? that is sick bro.

[@nateriver5114]

why not a cb500f instead? it offers better control, is easier to drive and faster.

[@kirstenboac36]

overcoming your fear to accomplished you dream is overwhelmingly rewarding, be courageous and be safe. Live, & enjoy your life

[@jvcoulter]

After taking off from a stop, it's a waste of time and effort to pull in the clutch lever all the way when upshifting, and is contributing to your trouble with clutch and throttle coordination when entering the new gear, and making you take way too much time to complete an upshift. If you apply gentle upward pressure on the shift lever just before the shift, then pull the lever in partially, the transmission will pop into the higher hear at the earliest possible moment of clutch disengagement, maybe only 1/4 of the total lever travel. You have a great encouraging and knowledgeable teacher. Keep practicing!

[@Steadfastly7]

Very nice. I love watching someone learn and getting it. That's great. As for the change in exhaust. That is very annoying to most people except some motorcycle people. I would leave it. As you get going on the road, also think about getting some bike pants with knee and hip armour.

[@briansupermag3918]

Great job. I am planning on taking my MSF course this spring and at 53 years old I am a bit nervous. But its something I have wanted to do for years.

[@RidewithRea]

Thank you! & that’s so exciting! good luck, you totally got this😊

[@Foodgeek]

I got my license when I was 49! Now, 2 1/2 later I've ridden about 23000 miles, and I ride all the time. 3 bikes. Rebel 1100, Honda Monkey and a CB550 from 1978 😁

[@RidewithRea]

@@Foodgeek that’s amazing!!!😊👍🏼

[@Chickenpotpieman]

Take a motorcycle safety course. They are usually run through the motorcycle safety program. They also will help you get your license.

[@1140327]

Hello, I am a new rider as well with m-lic and also have a rebel. Here are few ideas might worth looking into as far as up shifting. First, shift levers on any motorcycles / rebels are adjustable, so you can make it comfortable with your foot movements up and down. The motorcycle manufacturer understands that there are different types of riders with different statures, so the shifter adjustments are essential features in the motorcycle, just like brake lever, throttle lever, clutch lever, seats,etc. Second, there are after-market “heel to toe” shift levers, which allows you to shift up with your heel and still have the option available to use your toes to shift up. I hope this helps. Take care and safe riding.

[@scottytoohotty7617]

I found it very brave of you to video your first ride, guys would be way to embarrassed. You started like a boss, congratulations. I have male friends that see my bikes and always ask questions but they're too scared to start riding. Bravo.

[@Mirage502]

Hey there Rea. At the age of 64y, I am exited to follow suite and contemplating a 500SE rebel as my very first cruiser. Keep up the good work and share more.

[@RidewithRea]

Hello!! That is so inspiring & good luck to you! I think the rebel 500 would be great :)

[@Mirage502]

@@RidewithRea can you please confirm deposit made on your behalf? Is 20 USD highest allowable? As a fellow entrepreneur; albeit- senior by 45+ years of experience, I wish to contribute more, where applicable. Consider having own merchandise as a side kicker to generate income. You already have an established base Rea! Reach out if you need any support. Keep riding

[@marconeyu]

This is Rea's day 2? from scratch? Seriously guys? You just sent me catapulting in the world of Motorcycle kingdom! It's NO COMPARISON going on roads, esp. scenic roads on a motorcycle vs. a car. One feels much closer to Nature on a bike. I have been drooling over getting a motorcycle (A used BMW R 1250 RT for now until I can afford a newer one that is more expensive than my Ford Escape SUV 😥). This video is inspiring indeed! Heartfelt thanks to both of you for the videos!

[@jerryfarmer5989]

I like big open parking lots for learning. Thing about "gear" get what's comfortable for you. You don't need to get "stuff" that looks like everyone else. As to learning throttle control and shifting you will learn to shift without the clutch. By the way great bike to learn and grow on.

[@SFV4]

Regarding rain gear, don’t compromise. Get good quality. And be aware that water always finds it’s way (through capillarity). So better gear will keep you dry longer

[@scarabeo500gt]

Heck - I miss the days of getting a New Motorcycle and learning how to ride and stuff like Friction Zone etc. Enjoy this time and DON'T get stressed out - Laugh / Practice / Learn and start at a slow pace cause before you know you'll be seeing the same road in a totally new light. Cheers!!!

[@AntaresSQ01]

Just as a point on gear, I've just done a fancy 25 yard front flip off my S1000XR the other day when a car pulled out at about 30-35mph, full, gear, LITERALLY walked away from, only injuries is a bruised hip (hugely mitigated by hip protectors) and a supposedly fractures wrist, but i can't feel anything wrong with it, they put it in a cast anyway. But in actuality i'm no more sore than after a good day at the gym. As soon as they cut the cast off, i'm straight back on bikes. This contrasted with a small crash I had very early in my riding career about 15-20mph, no gear, just jeans and hoodie, spent weeks unable to walk properly because of my messed up knees. Honestly ATGATT is not even a joke anymore. There is no excuse not to wear gear, some gear out there is basically inconspicuous and can't be told apart from regular clothes, there is summer gear that actually keeps you cooler and less sweaty nowadays than wearing absolutely nothing, and there is also extremely affordable gear that will keep you completely safe for those on a budget. Just not worth the risk if you would like to ride at all in the future. Re skills: I wouldn't go on the public road until you've got a good handle on the controls and able to react with muscle memory. Take a look at European practical driving test portion of the motorcycle license, please be competent at that AT LEAST prior to venturing out on the roads. There is a reason they're in place all over europe. America's requirements of riding skill to be out on the road is WOEFULLY low and outright dangerous, especially when combined with your crazy drivers. I'm actually a motorcycle instructor teaching young teenagers and kids to ride bikes with absolutely 0 experience before and you're on the right track, but as a recommendation to your partner helping you out is to make sure you understand why you do what you do. There are times when you need to be left on your own to figure stuff out for yourself, but times when its very important to understand what not to do and why.

[@chauboii]

Not sure if it's mentioned in other comments ( I didn't go through them all), but DOT certification is the worst vs ECE and Snell, I'd look something better than DOT on your next helmet purchase. Padding on your gloves is good, but sliders (hard parts) are important too, especially in the palms. When you fall even at low speed, you'll naturally try to brace the fall, and without sliders, the leather palm can grab the road and twist and break your wrist. I had a friend accelerate from a stop too hard on cold tires, fell at a low speed, and broke his wrist, requiring surgery.

[@RidewithRea]

Yes! Definitely going to look for the better certification for my helmet. & thanks for the tip about the gloves 😮😢 I didn’t realize that could happen!

[@Google_Does_Evil_Now]

​@@RidewithRea please go for a 1-day training course. 6:14 in this video you are listening to him and you were saying back to him what he said to you. To work the clutch the gear lever and the throttle all at the same time. That's not right. The clutch has to be squeezed in first in order to separate the two CDs so that you can change gear. You don't work the gear lever and the clutch at the same time, the clutch must be pulled first in order to separate the two discs inside the engine which separate the engine from the gearbox. So you have the clutch pulled in, you've now pressed the gear lever, what will happen is that if you're increasing your speed on the motorcycle you will have selected a higher gear which needs less revs from the engine so you reduce the throttle a little bit. So as you're letting out the clutch for the engine gearbox to join together you have reduced the revs a little bit to try to match this new engine speed. So you need to have the clutch in in order to change gear and after you've changed gear you start to release the clutch. Where the clutch starts to separate the two CDs we call this the biting point. If you are stopped on the bike and you hold the front brake and you put the bike in first gear and you start slowly let the clutch out you will feel the point where it tries to move the motorcycle. This is where the two CDs are starting to spin together and try to make the bike move forward, this is the biting point. Why am I saying CDs? The engine and the gearbox are joined together by two spinning shafts each shaft has a CD on it. They call them clutch plates but basically they are like 2 CDs. One is on the engine shaft and the other is on the gearbox shaft and there is a spring squeezing them together. When you pull on the clutch lever you are pulling against a spring and you are separating the two shafts from each other. If you were to place a CD in one hand and another CD in your other hand and you had them on a shaft in the middle you could spin it. If the left one was spinning and you pressed it against the right one it would force the right one to start spinning. That is what the clutch is. The clutch is the squeezing mechanism which is two CDs which join the two shafts together. So each shaft has a CD glued onto the end of it and as they are squeezed together it forces the two shafts to spin at the same speed. One of the shaft is the engine the other shaft is the gearbox. When you change gears you have to adjust the engine speed a little bit to match the gearbox speed which is attached to the back wheel. Because the gearbox speed is attached to the back wheel when you change the gear selection you are changing the speed of the gearbox CD. When you change the throttle you are changing the speed of the engine shaft CD. As you become more experienced you will start to learn the sound of the engine speed and to match that with the gearbox speed depending on which gear. Summary: You stating back to him that you do all three things at the same time and that not making quite sense to you and him telling you that's correct. He is wrong. I don't know if he has a full motorcycle licence, I don't know if he's had proper training, I don't know if he drives a manual car but what he's saying is incorrect. If you try to drag the gear at the same time as you're pulling the clutch you might be lucky and you might not. If you are trying to do all three at the exact same time, decrease the revs which will upset the bike, and pull in the clutch, and change gear then this will cause little issues because they are not being done in the right order.

[@Google_Does_Evil_Now]

Look at the gap between your jacket wrist and your glove wrist. That bare skin has no protection. Genuine motorcycle jackets often have a zip for the wrist in order to make a snug fit onto the wrist and it will come down to your watch level and you may need to take your watch off when you're riding. In fact a lot of riders do take off their watches when they're riding so they don't get a wrist injury. You'll often find that motorcycle gloves also have a velcro strap around the wrist to make the gloves snug on the wrist and they will often have three or four inches of extra material that come past the length of the wrist and over the bottom of the jacket sleeve. Style: there are some very nice designs. Alpinestars have stunning ladies motorcycle clothing. I'm guessing they'll be lots of options for you from other manufacturers too. Your instructor should be able to give you the pros and cons of each type of clothing and your instructor is probably going to be attached to a motorcycle shop so they should be able to walk you through the options in the shop and giving you good advice and answering your questions.

[@Google_Does_Evil_Now]

Rea - Clutch - What is it? Think of it like two CDs. And these CDs are squeezed together tightly by a spring pushing against them to push them together. When you pull in the clutch lever you separate the two CDs. One CD is connected to the engine and the other is connected to the chain to the back wheel. When you rave the engine then this makes the wheel spin. When you pull in the clutch you separate the two CDs and this disconnects the engine from the chain and wheel. That's why when you pull in the clutch you can change gears because you separated the two CDs. So the clutch is like 2 CDs and when you pull in the clutch lever you pull apart the two CDs. You are working against the spring which is pushing two CDs together. When you rev the throttle you're making the engine spin faster so the CD which is attached to the engine is spinning faster. Have you seen the back wheel of a bicycle which has got the different sized geared wheels and you know when you change gear on a bicycle you can see the chain moving till like a bigger or smaller gear wheel? That's what's inside the engine and when you press the lever with your foot you are making the bike select one of the different sized gear wheels, just like on the backward of a bicycle. So when you're changing gear what does that actually do? It changes the gear ratio between the engine and the back wheel which means it changes how fast the engine is turning compared to how fast the wheel is turning. So if you had 2,000 revs for your engine in first gear and this was doing 10 mph if you change into second gear this could be 20 mph and again if you change to third gear 2,000 revs could be 30 mph. This will depend on the gear ratios of your engine gearbox. So if we think about what's happening when we're increasing our speed we will understand that we are going from a lower gear with high engine revs to the next gear up which will require lower engine reps for that same speed. So if we are at 5,000 revs in first and we're changing into second gear then we probably only need about 3,000 reps. So we will reduce the throttle a little bit as we are in letting the clutch cable out. With practise we learn the correct amount of revs for that gear at that current speed. The difference between each gear is usually quite similar to the next gear and the gear after that.

[@serhiy8615]

Cool video, greatings from Ukraine. With all respect it's better to invest in your gear and skills. You are already looking cool with your bike no need additional tuning, at least for nearest few month.

[@randyipsen]

I would suggest you go to a school or church parking lot. Practice figure eights. When you are on the road you need to monitor your surroundings 360• . Look far ahead down the road and keep looking into your rear view mirror. Try and leave a protective bubble space around you at all times and look for an out. One thing that I saw that was disturbing is you turning around in the street without stopping and looking if there was a car coming from behind you. Always keep an eye out for loose gravel or rocks on corners and curves. Use your rear break first then engage your front. With time you will learn the complete and smooth operation of your bike this will give you confidence but don’t get so confident you forget the basics. Always make sure you make eye contact with drivers entering the street. Just assume everyone is out to get you. Make sure they don’t. I’ve been riding for 53 yrs. I only had one accident. A guy in an suv looking right at me turned left in front of me. I Was able to slow enough that when I hit I bent his side steps and put a nice dent in his front passenger door. It bent my forks and radiator on my bike but i was able to ride away. Even when your doing everything right some idiot with mess you up. That’s a great bike to learn on. I ride a Honda shadow spirit that I bought new in 2001. I rode mostly enduros before that.

[@Grovreicraynth]

Love that you invested in gear. I prefer leather for most of the year except during the summer when the ambient temperatures are higher. That's when I use textile for more breathability. I use leather for my boots though but that's just more for the style points. Quick tip, do everything smoothly. Depressing the clutch, releasing, rolling on and off the throttle, braking, etc. Do everything smoothly and the bike will run smooth as well. The bike behaves based on how you behave.

[@allenknight8598]

I believe you are right for the Nightster Girl...No No you are a Harley Street Bob Girl for sure! It will maneuver much easier because the wheels are not fat like the Sportster S. I think you would look good behind those handle bars as well.

[@edwardkaminsky8142]

Hey Rea, You are doing fantastic. Kudos to the Gentleman helping you to learn. As you progress along, picking your ( Girl?) Up off the ground is a essential step to practice also.( I had to start doing Squats at 62 years old.🤷‍♂️) I will wear a fluorescent vest or jacket to help other's to see me when I can't or don't see them. Amazing how you blended in to the surroundings in the shaded area. Ride Safe and watch out for the road Hogs. ( Vegas In!)

[@kimhorton6109]

Aerostitch is a motorcycle accessory store with gloves I love. They are long enough to tuck into your jacket and deerskin so they are super soft. Their catalog is fun to flip through too. Best case for learning to ride is the Motorcycle Safety foundation beginner’s class. It’s usually taught at colleges on the weekend by certified trainers and it’s two weekends. They have traffic skills, turning clutch and on and on. I’ve taken it four times in my 60 years of riding street bikes. It can make your insurance cheaper as well.

[@ab3fan]

I have been riding for years and love it, I recommend a motorcycle safety course.

[@CurlyWolf_]

Good luck! We're new riders too and like seeing other people picking up the hobby and learning too! We definitely recommend taking the MSF course. It's a crash course in everything you need to know, plus, you get a voucher for your motorcycle license at the end!

[@RidewithRea]

Thank you so much! Yes I’m going to take the MSF course soon and I’m super excited 😊

[@evilplatypus1876]

Agree 100%. Msf helped me alot. Even after a few years of riding. Still alot to learn. Moto jitsu 😁👍

[@spartanx169x]

@@RidewithRea If you focus on motorcycles and your channel here and on Instagram will blow up in a short period of time.

[@iiGingiey]

For stopping quickly get comfortable squeezing your break with one maybe two fingers, your less likely to squeeze the front break too hard, if you don't have ABS squeezing to hard will lock the front tire and will increase your breaking distance. And for motorcycle cover recommendation I don't have a good recommendation but I use a Never wet brand cover I bought at Walmart. It blocks rain water when I remember to put it on. But my bike is under a car Port so rain isn't a hugh problem.

[@RidewithRea]

Thank you! Thankfully this has ABS but I will still practice not going too hard. Yea I got a cover from Amazon and it was torn to shreds by the wind 🙃 I have no idea how that even happened lol but I will try to get a better one

[@yannickcrick2815]

try to only use 2 fingers for front brake and clutch. That way it's harder to panic brake and lose control. Or something like that ... Also i sugest to do intermediate turning courses. They help a lot and make you ride like a pro. I did mine when i had my bike for 3 days. So it's never to early to do it.

[@johnmeier270]

I like the flip up shoei Helmut it's great when you come to a stoplight. Lift it up and chat with your wingman.... don't ever let ur guard down you never know what some distracted driver might do right in front of you..

[@songu6370]

If you want decent gloves that go up and above your wrist i recommend the sedici chicane women or the alpinestars stella sp8 v3.

[@RidewithRea]

Oh awesome! Thank you so much. 😊 I just looked them up and they’re exactly the type of gloves I was trying to look for.

[@therideofalifetime]

Good to see you back on. Basically what I have to say with shifting is its like a teeter-totter. When starting from a stop you let the clutch slowly out while pulling the throttle- get up to speed and pull in the clutch roll off the throttle shift then rinse and repeat. It comes easier the more you do it and listen to your bike is key. If it sound like its at it max you should switch gears. Can't wait to see your journey keep it up

[@RidewithRea]

Thank you so much! Yea I was struggling a bit from starting at a complete stop. I even stalled it a few times lol. I might practice some "stop-and-go" type of exercises to really get a better feel for it.

[@comeandtakem]

Honda rebels are the best beginner bikes, love them

[@flyersgoon8864]

That’s a beautiful bike I’m looking into the Harley iron 883 myself for my first bike

[@RidewithRea]

Gosh I want a Harley so bad!

[@mhoeij]

4:38 This bike is too nice to drop. I recommend learning U-turns on the MSF bike instead...

[@pavanb6412]

Cool! Keep posting more motorcycle stuff 😁

[@RidewithRea]

Thanks! Will do! :)

[@PodMaxPierre75]

Hi Rea, Congrats on your new bike and it is good to watch you learning. I always think that is good to invest in a good protection gear in case something happens you are protected and don't get hurt much. Make sure to check always if your jackets and pants have the level 2 protection D30 makes them and you can buy to put on your jackets and pants, people on your local motorcycle shop can help you with that, I learned along the years that most of the less expensive jackets doesn't come with the good back protection on them, or chest protection and you can purchase them separate and add on your jackets. Also I noted that you forgot to close the D-ring on your helmet, maybe you did and edit when you stopped you had opened but it always good to close them even if you are practicing on slow speeds because in case you fall and have them opened your helmet can go off your head. In case someone already told you this here apologies for writing again, I missed if someone wrote here. I am adding a video I found here on KZbin of someone teaching how to fasten the D-ring on a helmet. Keep going and learning and have fun riding. D-Ring helmet tutorial | How to fasten double D-link?? that is the title of the video in case the link doesn't work: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rqCVc5yXas13aNU

[@CreepyStoryFun]

Hang in there. It gets better. The Harley academy is a pretty good class.

[@ericsmith6692]

It is so nice that Bikeing is making a comeback

[@Google_Does_Evil_Now]

3:35 It's so obvious the guy teaching you is not an instructor even though he's very nice. He's saying it's ok to start the biking gear. While it will technically start in gear because you're a novice it's something you shouldn't really do. You're still learning about where the controls are and have you done up your helmet and where to put your feet and how to look around you but it's so easy to release the clutch with the engine running and the bike will just start putting you forward. If that happens and you're facing a roadway or a car is going past your parking spot then you're in trouble. Here is a video of part of the basic training we have to do in the UK in a one day training course kzbin.info/www/bejne/o4O1eIp_frhmZs0 There are other videos in this series, Element a, Element B, Element C. They are short videos and show student and teacher going through each of the steps.

[@Google_Does_Evil_Now]

Those gloves don't have this protection..... Oh yeah you realise that now. Who was shopping with you? What did your instructor recommend? Look at all the stuff you're buying that isn't quite right that if you had gone to an instructor for one day you would have learnt about. Please go to an instructor. Your local bike shop should know an instructor who will be able to show you examples of clothing explain to you pros and cons of each type. So then you can think about it and work out what you think is best. It looks like you're really keen and you're buying lots of stuff that isn't quite right. And if you had just gone to speak with the instructor then you would have made better choices. Please please please go and see an instructor. When I was a kid I made a few not so good choices on my motorcycle clothing too and I wish that someone had told me to go and see the instructor and I didn't realise that there's usually an instructor who is friends with the shop. Since then I've learnt to just ask and listen and think about what they're saying and then make up my own mind using their knowledge. Saved a lot of money! I think your bike looks great. And a 300cc first bike is loads of power. And the lightweight and easy manoeuvrability should be a help too. You made a really good choice there. The more heavier and powerful a bike is, the harder it is to stop when things go wrong. One thing more if you're still here that I would suggest is to try riding dirt bikes on grass or really loose ground. And see if they have bikes with worn tires that don't grip very much. The reason I'm suggesting this is for you to get feel of what it's like for the rear tire or the front tire to slide like a skit, whether that's from too much throttle or from breaking and the rear or the front skidding. I learnt how to do this on old road bikes on grass as well as dirt bikes. Road tires on grass have very little grip so it meant just a bad jogging speed I could learn how the front would be in a front skid and have the rear would be in a rear skid and even both of them together. I learnt how to do power sliding leaning to the side can't a steering full throttle etc. All very low speed and on grass so it was a much reduced risk. And we were kids and having fun! I'm sure you will get lots of advice from lots of well-meaning people and you will be bored of it but it all comes from a good place. This is the training video from a centre in Britain where we all have to go on a 1 training course called CBT compulsory basic training. Everyone in Europe has to do it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/o4O1eIp_frhmZs0 - this is the guy walking around the bike telling what all the controls are, in element C and element D you will see him practising in a car park and then ride it on the road. The instructor gives clear explanations each step on the way and explains why he wants to guy to do different things and what the purpose and benefits are for each piece of training.

[@Google_Does_Evil_Now]

4:51 he hasn't even taught you to use your indicators, you're not using your mirrors, you're not looking left or right, you just pulling into the right side of the road and doing a complete circle to rejoin the road without checking anything is clear. You haven't got the confidence to stop, look both ways, and then pull off. And we can see that you're trying to do a continuous movement and I'm guessing that might be because you're not confident enough to stop and turn or to stop wait look look over your shoulder and then go. I think if each time you pull into the right you are practising stopping before you join the lane and this would also increase your ability of joining lanes. It's just so obvious he's not an instructor and it's so obvious you're learning badly and you're at risk. If a car comes around that corner while you're turning I don't think you'll be able to stop safely. And the car driver has no way of knowing that you're a complete novice and they will expect you to ride like a proper road user. You don't seem to have any red L plates displayed to indicate that you're a learner, a novice who doesn't really know what they're doing on the road yet. You're making these turns about 10 yards from a Tee junction. It's not like you in an empty car park or a quiet part of the car park in one corner. You've bought a bike that's only a year old and you've already made a mistake about the gloves and I can't believe you spent all this money and you haven't booked in one or two days training. As a European it seems strange that there's a modern country where you can just buy a motorcycle and get on it and ride it on the road without having a clue how to ride it. We have a one day basic training in Europe which which gives us a learner licence to ride a restricted motorcycle. Please do the one they basic training in your country :-)

[@CanadianThor]

Great job, lots of people commenting on the gear lol don’t mind them. Get the gear you want to feel comfortable riding and I’m excited to see more!

[@expandingknowledge8269]

The best exhaust for your Rebel 300, I believe is the Vance and Hines system, sounds incredible on a single engine thumper. The only draw back with single cylinder bikes sound wise, is they get very loud in the higher RPM range, which could be a draw back if you ride in congested city areas. the Vance and Hines is expensive, but well worth the money long term. Happy riding!

[@RidewithRea]

I was checking out the Vance & Hines exhausts! I also like the Coffman as well. Trying to decide between the two. Thanks for the rec!

[@noomfy-mopkebab3632]

I’d love to do a similar blog style thing when I start my riding journey but I don’t think I have the necessary skills or equipment. I’ve got 2 months before my bike arrives so have the luxury of slowly collecting gear before my first ride. I got an Ixon vortex jacket, alpine star back insert for it and a HJC anti venom helmet so far. Prob all a bit over kill. I’m not going to be racing. But I’d rather be more protected than not

[@RidewithRea]

You should definitely do it!! I didn’t have any skill or equipment when I first started. I think sharing those things can also be helpful for anyone else that are beginner riders :)

[@noomfy-mopkebab3632]

Very good point.. I’ve been watching AALLLL the “beginner rider” videos recently.. Every bit of advice helps and some people have suggestions that others wouldn’t have even thought of.. I’ll definitely be thinking a bit more about a blog style thing. It’s not like I don’t have the time for it lol. Thanks for the reply and thanks for the video in the first place

[@Vladimir-gq2ho]

I think that you should think about protection, like back protection, knees protection etc. Because if you fall, (IT happens even skilled riders) IT hurts.

[@tomkitchen2764]

I think that you're doing a great job.

[@RidewithRea]

thank you so much!!

[@LOLewie]

for slow speed turns. its best to 'preload' the bike. using the back brake and throttle simultaneously. it takes practice. but basically your slighty dragging the back brake. and your on throttle while feathering the clutch. This keeps the bike wanting to stay up. So you dont just tip over at slow speed turns. like making a u-turn. Look up the YT channel "Be The Boss Of Your Motorcycle!" He explains and demonstrates it well. He was a motorcycle cop. So he has lots of experience slow speed turning on heavy bikes.

[@RidewithRea]

Thank you so much!!!! I’ll check out that channel 😊

[@DylanKing-c4d]

I just got my very first bike today. It is a 2017 Honda Rebel 300, just like yours. I am very nervous about the clutch and afraid of dropping the bike. I haven't gotten to ride my bike yet. I'm still trying to learn.

[@RidewithRea]

Woohoo congrats on getting a bike!! I’m sure you’ll learn quickly 😊 safe riding!

[@48moses]

I enjoyed your video. I received motorcycle license 2 weeks ago. Really no quiet streets to practice. I need to take my bike for inspection. I live on a major rural highway with lumber trucks speeding pass all day. I'll get out there one day. But for now I'll probably put my bike on trailer and take it for inspection (or maybe not) I'm determined 😊

[@ronfeldman4386]

I think it is great that you are daring enough to learn how to ride a motorcycle. Be safe

[@EvolvingNaturally]

I love the helmet rack. What brand?

[@RidewithRea]

The brand is US2U on Amazon. I have a link to the helmet rack in the description box for this video😊

[@n5iln]

Turn your head and eyes more. Look where you WANT to go, not where you ARE going. Wherever you're looking is where the cycle will go, so if you see a hazard and fixate on it, guess what. You're doing great!

[@RidewithRea]

Thank you!!

[@ToeTag1968]

I haven't watched this series - or your channel - before, but I can tell you are going to be a good rider. Starting by doing the responsible thing and finding a lower-powered bike that will still go fast enough was exactly the right move. Some people want the big 1000cc bike to start. It'd be like handing a 15yo with no riding experience the keys to a Ferrari. Learn the basics on a relatively "cheap" bike then upgrade if/when you feel like you need a new bike for more power or a different riding style.

[@ryanlake7603]

Ride the clutch it is your friend. Ride stow so you can stop easier. Set on the bike and pretend you are riding. Think about what both hands should be doing. Clutch out slowly and throttling up. Slowly at the same time. If you feel you are moving to fast grab the clutch quickly and grab the brake slowly. Train your mind until it is second nature.

[@maximusmiles8435]

Glad to see you wearing some gear. Learning quick. Especially the lean, this early on.

[@TheJasinator]

I would recommend taking the MSF course if possible. Its really good for new riders. You'll learn to control your bike and gain a lot of confidence.

[@RidewithRea]

Yes! I am registered for the MSF course & super excited to take it soon😊

[@fatdmk168]

​@@RidewithReaWhile you are waiting. Find "ride like a pro Jerry Palladno" channel on youtube. Lot of interesting info there from one of the best motorcycle trainers.

[@hmmlemeeshink]

You did a fantastic job on day 2!

[@RidewithRea]

Thank you so much!!

[@NinjaChoke]

you are a very fast learner, hope im gonna learn as fast as you

[@alessandromeloni6992]

Rea, stai andando bene, complimenti. Guida con calma e prudenza.

[@PATTT_]

I got a 2023 rebel 500 for christmas! so much fun

[@keithrowell2951]

Good luck. Be safe. Do what makes you happy.

[@REBELMOTION...500]

You need Gauntlet gloves, they have a longer wrist area that flares out to go up you jacket sleeves.

[@julieb5434]

You need shoulder, elbow, knee, and hip armor. That jacket does not appear to be armored, so it’s not a proper motorcycle jacket. You can get an inexpensive Bilt or Street and Steel armored jacket at your local cycle gear.

[@julieb5434]

Oh and don’t even think about changing out your exhaust until you have good gear. I’m sorry to say it but a DOT helmet doesn’t cut it. You need an ECE or Snell rated helmet.

[@MrGunnar177]

This is super helpful. I don’t know anything about bikes but I’ve been thinking about getting a rebel 500

[@miksst7914]

i also started riding and i joined a motorcycle course to learn 1st thing they thought us was exercises to help develop mobility/flexibility of your body specifically the hips then they thought us how to crash/fall with your motorcycle.. we did all this before they let us ride

[@3dougj]

Being day two of your journey, you are doing amazingly well. Maybe I should take lessons from you.

[@RidewithRea]

🥹 thank you!!

[@redbear1935]

Ok first , always start and kill in Neutral. Your throttle grab is good , wrist lower then knuckles in case whiskey . Now go to large parking lot and learn few things very well before riding roads , must . Emergency braking hard and avoiding obstacles from ether side , then there is counter steering avoiding target fixation . That may safe your life . Every few days go to lot and practice, practice, practice . Road is not the place to learn .

[@squirellynutts]

Check out some leather jackets that are armored, theyre comfortable and breathe decent when cruising.(where youre not sweating your butt off). Oh and dont forget if you whiskey throttle it always grab your clutch first. Your doing great just remeber when slow turning stay in that friction zone and counter balance your bike while riding the rear brake. And always look where your going espescially while turning. Dan dan the fireman has some great pointers for all types of riding too. Keep that shiney side up and ride on!

[@RidewithRea]

Thank you so much!! I just got myself a mesh jacket with pads and it’s much better for the hot days 😅 and thank you for the tips :) much appreciated!!

[@OneStepBeyondu]

@@RidewithRea And pants? What are you wearing? Please don't tell me denim jeans. I wear fully Kevlar lined jeans made by Hood Jeans in the UK.

[@JasonWee]

i wanted to get honda rebel too but here only 500cc version and my driving license cap at 250cc.. so i end up getting qjmotor srv250 ... i had a great time too! last i rode for 558km :) in 2 days.. hehe