My Top Riding Tips For Beginners | Riding Tips #3

[@Markycarandbikestuff]

Mind Set is something i struggled with at first, feeling of dread when going out on your tod for the first few times with no instructor, it does pass though for those who suffer it. Also buying a Sports Bike as a first bike, i bought a 2004 GSXR600, i was crapping myself when i first took it out (i learned on a Gladius), the high pegs, clipons, limited steering lock, seating position was all unpleasant at first (and i was in agony lol), 18 month on i love it, so while you can buy a Sports Bike as a first bike it wont be easy. Also stick to roads you know at first, for the first month or so i rode the roads i used on my lessons, just to get used to the bike.

[@MotoEcosse]

Some good tips as well, Dingo. I'll pin this comment up. 🤜🤛

[@Markycarandbikestuff]

@@MotoEcosse Cheers man, i enjoy your channel.

[@MotoEcosse]

@@Markycarandbikestuff Much appreciated mate. 🤜🤛

[@deanwallace9238]

Good tip I try to do as often as I remember/can be arsed - get your gear and helmet on ready to go, but right before you get out onto the bike, just sit there for five minutes in silence with no distractions, and try to clear your mind a bit. Take a few slow and deep breaths too. Two reasons: it helps you clear your head of all the usual day's shite that distracts you while driving, and it helps you contemplate what you're about to do - that is, it gets you in the mindset of "I'm about to ride my motorbike. Time to really focus on that." Aside from that, the best tip is to drive like everyone else on the road is absolutely plastered out of their skulls. Defensive riding styles have saved me from so many close calls and I've only been on the road a year.

[@waynesorsby125]

...also, minor thing, but thanks for not peppering your vids with bad language. Only boosts your respectability. I should say I’m due for my Mod 2 in a month, your vids are really helpful. Keep it up!

[@MotoEcosse]

Appreciate that, Wayne. All the best for your Mod 2 next month. 🤜🤛

[@alasdairduncan7200]

Touching on ride your own ride i love my pals we always ride at slowest riders pace so they dint feel like we are leaving anyone behind

[@MotoEcosse]

Absolutely the best way to do it, Alasdair. 🤜🤛

[@alasdairduncan7200]

@@MotoEcosse expscially when weather turns sour i had good skill on 125 wet riding but my 650 a totally differnt beast haha finally getting good tyres fitted today lol

[@MotoEcosse]

@@alasdairduncan7200 Tell me about it. I got caught in a monsoon yesterday. Didn't have my wets with me so absolutely soaked 🤣. Next weeks video is on wet riding. As long as your sensible it's absolutely fine. 🤜🤛

[@alasdairduncan7200]

@@MotoEcosse i had my bike sideways on a slip road in a monsoon 2 days ago cause have crap tyres finally got myself a set of michelin road 5 going on today

[@MotoEcosse]

Sounds fun 🤣. Good tyres. I used Pirelli Angel GTs. Amazing tyres as well.

[@imklix]

Top vid Leo for new riders, lots of useful information, thank you for the refresher

[@huw140269]

After watching motorbike videos from all over the world I never thought I would see one riding through The Raploch :)

[@robertemmott3652]

I hope soon to be a biker, and this video is one of the best I have seen - Thank You!👍

[@outcastmoto8374]

In regards to distance from the vehicle ahead, something I was taught was only a fool breaks the 2 second rule and then depending on weather conditions that sets the minimum distance you should leave for example: Dry road - 2-4 second gap Wet road - 4-6 second gap snow/ice - 10+ second gap typically while out and about on an average day I'll typically leave a 4 second gap as it's very rare I let myself go down to 2 seconds.

[@Alex-HFC1875]

I am an experienced rider and been riding for years but enjoy watching your vids, some really great advice for novices 👍

[@stevewilson8752]

Great advice matey 👍😀 Im 58 & about to start learning to ride 🏍 its something ive always wanted to do & now im at a mature sensible age to ride a motorcycle 😜 Ive been watching many video's about learning to ride & instructor courses & watching Your video has been helpful 👍 Respect from steve in Bundaberg Australia 🇭🇲🕺🍹

[@waynesorsby125]

Your advice is so sound. Your level head and perspective has/will do a great deal of good. Low key but high quality. Thanks!

[@steveh9193]

Top video as always. And the watch the wheels is the best tip about. As an ADI I teach that and will definitely always use it. Mod 1 and 2 very soon. So can’t wait to get on 2 wheels. Stay safe and as always. TOP VIDEOS FROM A TOP MAN.

[@janinew233]

Great video as always. I would never go out on my bike if I had a clear mindset lol. I always worry about the what if's. But I understand where you are coming from. Another couple of tips I would suggest is to avoid any wet patches on the road, it could be diesel or oil. You can see them when it's wet cause it gives off a rainbow effect. The other is more for the shorter riders. I had an incident the other night whilst out. I'm only 5ft 3" and I ride a street triple R that's been lowered and I still managed to drop my bike. It was down to the camber of the road on the left fell away, so when I went to put my foot down the bike leaned over a lot more than normal and I just couldn't hold it up. So always be vigilant of the camber of the roads. I definitely will in future that's for sure. Everyday is a learning day when out on your bike, even if you have been riding years. Stay safe everyone 🏍👍

[@MotoEcosse]

Sorry to hear you dropped your bike. Cambers can always be a bit tricky that way. Good tip about diesel. That stuff can be a pain. How have you been feeling out on the bike since you passed your test?

[@janinew233]

@@MotoEcosse I was lucky I had no damage at all to my bike. I on the other hand hurt my shoulder, hip and knee. I had full protective clothing on too, so if I hadn't I probably would've been worse. What was more annoying was the amount of people that drove past and didn't stop to check I was OK or help me lift my bike. Eventually after 10 minutes or so a guy stopped to check on me and help me lift my bike. He was also a biker. I would never drive past anyone on there own and not stop. Thanks for asking, I have been absolutely loving it, but currently finding it a bit uncomfortable in this heat. We've been having way over 30⁰ down here. I think I'm going to treat myself to a mesh jacket to make it a bit more comfortable to ride in.

[@MotoEcosse]

That's terrible no one stopped. Good job a fellow biker passed by. Yeah the heat is a real issue just now. I wear a textile with removable liner. It does have a few vents which helps but gotta stop every so often to hydrate.

[@gordonjohnston3845]

Brilliant mate. It's great to go over your vids as a new rider. The voice of reason. Safety is your priority and ride your own ride are what I am at. As you point out you can be safe and still really enjoy it. Thanks for all the vids. Defo helped me through my mod 2 no end.

[@chrishewitt4220]

When I first arrived here in Oz, fae the NE of Scotland over 20+ years ago... I was gobsmacked at the amount of riders doing exactly what you said... Helmet only! T-shirt, shorts and flip-flops! I was like, man, if you come off there's no skin left for the skin graft!

[@alanpritchard5709]

I passed my bike test in 1978 and am still riding today. All that Moto Ecosse says in this vid makes perfect sense. I will add though, mindset is an individual thing that only we as a person can judge. I still 'go with my gut' about whether to go out or give it a miss. Your bike is your 'pleasure vehicle' and it should be...just that. If you don't feel right mentally, go and read a book or whatever. You always without exception, need your full attention and faculties whilst riding, but if your mind is elsewhere, there's no knowing when the inevitable accident will happen. This may sound all very safe and grandaddy, but...I'm still riding my bike at 62 and have no intention of giving it up! RIDE SAFE EVERYONE - ROAD RASH HURTS LIKE HELL!

[@Faunarr]

personally, whenever I ride. I am unable to focus on anything but riding. Riding straight up takes up my entire attention and that's all I'm thinking about. I just cannot take my focus off. So for me it has never mattered what mood I Was in. Whenever I'm on the bike my mindset immedietally changes

[@michaelcarden6320]

Hi just wanted to thank you for all of these videos which together with others (and of course my instructor) contributed to passing Mod 2 yesterday so now the adventure begins! Thanks again

[@MotoEcosse]

Glad you found them useful, Michael. Congrats on passing your test. 🤜🤛

[@MadOldBiker]

PMSL - dont go out in a monsoon !!! brilliant !

[@arjun3807]

I really like the ‘opening the tap’ analogy for using the clutch. Great video! Subbed

[@MotoEcosse]

Much appreciated, Arjun. Getting really good at clutch control can completely transform the way you ride.

[@arjun3807]

@@MotoEcosse Totally agree!

[@DoomNedwob]

Another cracking video man 👌 In the past few days, I've seen a young lad wearing shorts, t-shirt and trainers on a moped...he had a helmet at least, I've seen some locally testing out their bikes and they don't even bother with those! Also some just riding way too close to the cars infront. I probably did plenty of questionable things in my youth as a car driver, so thankfully have a bit more sense where self preservation is concerned, and videos like yours to watch for tips, cheers 😀

[@MotoEcosse]

Cheers bud. Yeah it really is alarming the amount of riders doing it. Saw 2 on scooters when I was out with the kids yesterday. Unbelievable.

[@DoomNedwob]

@@MotoEcosse I remember one of my old dad's carers came off a Lambretta. Not sure what gear she was wearing, but she showed me the scars up her arm! That's kinda why I went and bought some decent gear way before even getting on a bike...haha, still haven't got my 125...but may have one tomorrow! 😁

[@MotoEcosse]

Ah nice. Possible new bike day tomorrow. Always a great day. What 125 are you looking at getting?

[@DoomNedwob]

@@MotoEcosse The bike is a Mash café racer, so French/Chinese, which doesn't bother me in the slightest. I kinda like the classic look 😁 About bloomin' time I got on two wheel. It's already two months since my CBT and I haven't been on a bike since!

[@MotoEcosse]

@@DoomNedwob Nice. You'll be glad to get out, especially while the nice weather's here. Just remember to take your time on your first ride out and build up your confidence. 🤜🤛

[@muddyharbourrider7340]

Excellent advice for all bikers and nicely presented. Loved the - observe everything - so true. 👍

[@MotoEcosse]

Thanks, Muddy. Yeah I personally think observing everything is on if the best things a rider can do. 🤜🤛

[@comfortclient9763]

I’m really enjoying watching your videos and learning a lot. Many thanks and keep them coming.

[@joanne6155]

Great channel and fab to see tutorials on Scottish roads. You have helped me immensely with my confidence, thanks 😊

[@MotoEcosse]

Excellent, Joanne. Getting more confident as a rider is massive when it comes to improving your skills. 🤜🤛

[@weronika1999x]

Your videos and guidance is so helpful. I’d love to be able to ride a motorbike and your videos had really helped me out on where to start and gain confidence! Thank you so much, your channel is great!😃

[@MotoEcosse]

Appreciate that, Vera. 🤜🤛

[@Paul-rc1xs]

Absolutely love these vidoes mate. Keep up the great work 👍

[@niblet2121]

"Observe everything" he says, going 40+ in a 30 (16:29) 😂 Seriously though, love your videos. Subbed after watching the first 👍

[@peterkenworthy9219]

YoULL also learn that the vast majority of white lanes aren’t fit for purpose because they are so faded away…I’m sure at busy junction and roundabouts good white lines would ease confusion and therefore ease congestion.. even colour coded lanes would help on monster lane roundabouts… well, thats my opinion

[@alanjohnstone2539]

Very good mate, keep them coming. Superb.

[@davestatham8668]

This is such a brilliant video, lost count how many times I've watched it now.

[@MotoEcosse]

Appreciate it, Dave. 🤜🤛

[@davestatham8668]

@@MotoEcosse Hi there, sorry to bother you but I could do with some advice. Having a real struggle with this speed thing still and road position. I'm out practicing every chance I get but for some reason holding that number 2 command position is proving hard. In the town I'm fine but when I get out on the country roads lack of confidence hits and I move over to position 1 and cars start passing me. Just come back from a ride and feeling deflated and is this for meany? Any advice would be great. Thanks Dave

[@MotoEcosse]

@@davestatham8668 @Dave Statham Hey, Dave. What do you think it is that's causing the confidence issue? Is it holding up other vehicles or fear of going faster? Both of these are common issues when learning to ride, especially on smaller bikes. What I'd suggest is to find a road that you know really well and go out when it's quiet if you can, even a back road somewhere. If it's a back road just make sure it's fairly straight and mud free from tractors etc. Get up to a pace that you feel comfortable at, then keep saying to yourself to stay in position 2. Even if you're only doing about 40mph, the purpose of this is to make staying in P2 second nature. Just keep going up and down the same road saying this. Stop for a few minutes break then start again, only this time try not remind yourself, just ride the same road up and down. If you feel your drifting back over to P1 just start telling yourself again to stay in P2. Don't spend hours on end doing this cause you will get sick of it. 30 minutes at a time a few times a week. It's much better practicing things like this on a quiet road than out in busy roads. As for the speed issue, don't stress to much about it. Speed comes with experience plus it's a lot harder on smaller bikes. I don't think I ever had my 125 over about 50mph. I would also hold up cars but by staying in P2 you're taking up as much of the road and they're less likely to pass. I can guarantee some still will. If it's a fear of going faster, just do the same thing as the position practice. Nice straight quiet road, get up to a comfortable speed then just ride back and forth, then try increasing your speed by about 5mph then just keep repeating. Obviously if you feel out of your comfort zone or not safe at any point slow down and stop, like I said, speed comes with practice and experience. The main thing to remember is 125s generally aren't fast. Some will struggle to do 60ish mph and when they do the sound like the engine is gonna blow up, it won't it's just the bike getting pushed to it's limit. It's like maxing out a sport bike. Eventually if you reach top speed the bike will be screaming it's head off. Just remember these things take time and practice. Riding a motorbike is one of those things where you're always learning, regardless of your experience and years on the road. Try not to stress about it, just know that it will come with practice. 🤜🤛 P.S Apologies for the long reply. If you're still struggling let me know. 🙂

[@davestatham8668]

@@MotoEcossethank you so much for this response. I think the fear is me losing control of the bike at speed and coming off. On the open country roads and bends I feel like the bike is going to slip from underneath me. That's when I apply the rear break and drop my speed. I'm going to keep going out and find a road like you said and keep trying. Thank you for taking the time to help me

[@MotoEcosse]

@@davestatham8668 yeah that feeling your describing definitely sounds like a confidence issue. Not necessarily in your riding but in your confidence in the bike. As long as your on a road with decent grip and you're not flying round it like a mad man, the bike will be fine. The main reason the bike comes out from under riders on corners is panicking and grabbing the front brake. 🤜🤛

[@harrysomal8603]

Thanks for the informative video

[@mickrick960]

Absolute top blogger, watched all yr vids many times and try to put into practice... Thank you so much 👍🏼

[@MotoEcosse]

Appreciate that, Mick. Hope the practice is going well. 🤜🤛

[@selbyroad100]

Great tips, thank you for your perspective. You are a very talented video maker with great content. More video please

[@MotoEcosse]

Appreciate that. 🤜🤛

[@Giveitago777]

Love the videos bud just past my cbt on Friday and on my road to do my full licence you're videos are very informative and can't wait to get myself a 125cc and practice

[@MotoEcosse]

Good job on getting your CBT man, glad the videos are helpful. Have fun on your 125 when you get it mate. Ride safe. 🤜🤛

[@Giveitago777]

@@MotoEcosse looking for one just now can't wait to get out and about and join the bike community might see you about lol I'm not to far from where you film you're videos lol I'm balloch thanks for the content videos are very helpful

[@clarkie0708]

Great video thanks moto✌

[@MotoEcosse]

🤜🤛

[@focuscommander]

Really enjoy your vids dude lots of useful common sense advice but one tiny criticism is your speed. So often I can see your speedo and you're over the limit for the bit of road you're riding. Like I said just a small criticism as we're all guilty of doin it at times but worth keeping an eye on. Keep up the good work

[@Liddy19]

I came off my 50cc at 20mph and it hurt. Broken ribs, very bruised. Could have been a lot worse without gear

[@ianmckinney3446]

I've got my CBT booked, never road a bike in my life but always wanted to. Out of curiosity I decided to get a insurance quote for a sinis hoodlum and it was £750 for just third party 😭.

[@adamchristie3084]

Need help on roundabouts

[@alasdairduncan7200]

Great vids dude 💯💯💯 hopefully get a ride with you in the future 💯💯

[@MotoEcosse]

Much appreciated, Alasdair. 🤜🤛

[@alasdairduncan7200]

@@MotoEcosse any time borther ride safe burn rubber not your soul 🤜🤛

[@iainwallington474]

Another quality video awesome Moto

[@MotoEcosse]

Cheers, Iain. 🤜🤛

[@peterkenworthy9219]

2,08 . Car moves in your lane with no indication at roundabout. Easy mistake if unfamiliar with area but still needs to indicate

[@MotoEcosse]

One of the biggest problems with car drivers is lack of indicators.

[@peterkenworthy9219]

@@MotoEcosse I pride myself on my good , considerate driving skills . I make errors , I’m not perfect but I treat all others with respect x

[@craig9143]

Another useful video and good tips as I’m doing the direct access after passing my CBT. I found my wrists and arms getting a bit sore towards the end of my CBT. Could this be that I’m gripping the handlebars too tight ?

[@MotoEcosse]

Hey, Craig. Yeah that could be the problem. Staying loose up top and grip the tank with your legs is the most comfortable way to ride. It could also be down to your muscles not being used to it. The more you ride, the more time on the bike you can tolerate 🤜🤛

[@the_mad_ratter]

Chances are it was the geometry of the bike. I'm of the taller persuasion and find myself leaning down onto most stock bars putting strain on my wrists and numbing my palms and fingers, it also strains my shoulders and under my arms. If you were gripping too tight, you'd get cramp between your thumb and index finger. If new bars/risers aren't an option, you can buy a clip on "palm stop" that uses your palm to turn the throttle.

[@MICKRIDEOUT]

Ones again good wee video :)

[@MotoEcosse]

Cheers, Finan. 🤜🤛

[@Danny-et4wj]

Excellent content

[@MotoEcosse]

Cheers, Danny. 🤜🤛

[@HarrisonWheeler358]

20:52 - How come no life saver was needed at this roundabout?

[@HarrisonWheeler358]

I am doing my cbt soon, so I'm just trying to fully understand life savers...thanks

[@MotoEcosse]

I knew there were no cars 8n the area. While learning though you should always do one regardless. 🤜🤛

[@scrumpymanjack]

Thanks for this. I just bought my first motorbike after doing CBT and theory test this month. I had told my wife I was doing the course and was thinking about getting a bike. So far so good. But when I told her today that I had actually bought one it’s arriving Thursday), she….FREAKED OUT. She’s super upset, says it’s dangerous and that I’m irresponsible, especially since we have two kids. Anyone been though a similar experience? Any advice? Thanks.

[@MotoEcosse]

Hey man. Honestly never had this situation and also had kids. Yes bikes can be dangerous, but so is driving a car. The bike itself isn't really a dangerous machine, it's the mindset of the rider that can cause problems, and of course other road users. Some riders think their skill level is actually much higher and they end up in a sticky situation. If you take your time and increase your skill and experience over time, riding a bike is one the best things in the world, and it's also something you can do with your wife. Although bikes can be fast, it doesn't mean they need to be ridden fast. You can have so much fun going round the twisty roads at 40mph. Hope you enjoy your new bike. 🤜🤛

[@scrumpymanjack]

@@MotoEcosse Thanks, mate. Much appreciated comment. I'm cautious naturally and, when I rode a bicycle in Paris and London for years, my mindset was to have a big presence by riding as fast as the cars (when possible) and in the middle of the lane (where they can't mess you about as much) while also assuming that nobody can see you (which forces you never to assume anything). It served me well. I intend to use that same mindset with my bike. Hopefully over time, she'll see that a bike doesn't have to mean an early grave!

[@Ichtmcj]

Nice bike

[@smoll.miniatures]

I got 50/50 and only lost 4 points on my hazard. Sat the test about 2 months ago and have forgotten half of it.

[@beverleynorth4914]

Excellent video All very valid points that you make in a clear style Albeit with a dodgy Scottish accent!!!! 😂

[@MotoEcosse]

🤣🤣🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@gatehanger1385]

That is not a dodgy Scottish accent.... It's as authentic as a well aged bottle of Glenfiddich!

[@DG-ig4wj]

Who’s your insurance with? What’s your situation regarding insurance ?

[@MotoEcosse]

Hey D G. My insurance is with Hastings Direct and it's fully comprehensive including pillion passenger with 1 year NCB on the bike and 15 years clean insurance with a car which helps with the bike insurance. 🤜🤛

[@DG-ig4wj]

@@MotoEcosse struggling with mine, just got my bike license have a 2001 Honda cb600f they’re asking for 1600£. I have 8 years ncb with my car insurance.

[@DG-ig4wj]

@@MotoEcosse loving the videos btw

[@MotoEcosse]

Have you tried MCN compare? It's a good way to find the cheapest quotes.

[@MotoEcosse]

Cheers man. 🤜🤛

[@gabrielsansar6187]

having an argument here about something never mentioned in biking vids........... Im going what i told decades ago learning but a mate has been told something opposite who is doing his mod 2................so....................... when stopping waiting etc.. whats the `rule` if there is one on which foot down or both feet down.......or diff every riding school.. Also gearing and braking... he`s been told you need to use the rear brake blah blah to show those behind you that ur using it or are sat still in control.......... that means u cant have ur right foot down so u better be in first before u get ready to set off.......this started with which foot and is now a full on debate about the mentioned.........its going to come to blows soon

[@MotoEcosse]

Hey, Gabriel. It really all depends on the instructor. Different schools have their own way of teaching certain things. This is the way I was taught. When stopping for say traffic lights, you'd want to be in 1st gear anyway, always change down to first if you plan/need to stop the bike. By already being in 1st, you can keep your right foot on the back brake which shows you have control of the bike. If however, you stop at lights and you know it's going to be red for a while, pop it into neutral then your free to put both feet down if you wish. If you do that way, make sure to hold the front brake, again to show you have control. If you decide to put the bike in neutral, you can put your right foot down and keep your left on the gear lever ready to change down to 1st, that way your not jumping back and forth between feet. The latter is more of and advanced riding technique and instructors don't like to see advanced techniques on a mod 2, so it's better getting and instructors opinion on that one before mod 2. Personally for me, if it's mod 2 related, keep the bike in 1st gear and right foot on the back brake. Once passed, it's entirely up to the rider. 🤜🤛

[@gabrielsansar6187]

@@MotoEcosse hmmm but thats real tricky knowing if u need to bein first as ur pulling up.. there can be that can i go cant i go and then there is direction so u might be on more of a slant.. see I have said there is no rule to say u cant for example just put both feet down. and if u need to swap and change them its not part of the test its u doing whats needed or comfortable at the time.. I personally like both feet planted at all times. front brake on yes but if im going to get clipped from any direction i have a foot in either direction ready to catch me... but I learned decades ago !! so might be changed now. also u can have people who just are not steady enough to be confident in one down only all the time... and then there are people with dodgy knees !!.. ha i could rant on about this..

[@gatehanger1385]

The best money you'll ever spend is the money you spend on protective gear.

[@MotoEcosse]

Absolutely. 🤜🤛

[@ethan8149]

I was stupid, saw a bike that was local and under £1000 totally forgot about insurance. Turns out I have to pay £1400 a year for insurance

[@MotoEcosse]

Damn, that's a steep insurance quote. What was the bike?

[@ethan8149]

@@MotoEcosse it’s a lexmoto xtr125, got it for only 795

[@BC-xu8yq]

£80 for insurance :o My quote is over £450 for a 125 😂

[@Palmit_]

Echoing other riders comments. and to consolidate them all, my tip is: YOU can drive as safely as possible, but other road users, includng animals, don't. ANTICIPATE ANTICIPATE ANTICIPATE

[@MotoEcosse]

Absolutely. 🤜🤛

[@robertfair8872]

Yeah

[@robertfair8872]

Yeah that’s okay I

[@robertfair8872]

Yeah

[@robertfair8872]

I don’t want anything

[@duncanworman6587]

All sound advice