STOP Riding Like a Beginner with These Adventure Bike Tips!

[@goduxunike]

As someone who is afraid of committing to a bigger bike after 3 years of having my license due to height and strength problems, this is very helpful

[@elmotherider]

im 5'1 with 26" inseam and i have a cbr125 with 32 inch seat height, having a lighter bike helps, less than 200kg/425lbs preferably and one that is slim, but aslong as u can get comfortable with using one foot every time you stop then you'll be good. i've only dropped my cbr twice and it was because i was tryna u-turn

[@bsmukler]

I really admire how conscientious you are and have been about learning and practicing the various motorcycle related techniques, especially given your early trepidations about tall bikes. In particular, your demeanor and presentation in this video is that of someone who has gained a solid base of self-confidence, a reward for the past several years of concentrated hard work. You’ve come a long way from only riding in your neighborhood!

[@lizbelli8287]

Absolutely loving your videos. Im a 5’2” lady rider. I was so nervous about my height. I have been practicing with one foot down on a friend’s z650 and it only took me about five minutes to feel comfortable. This enabled me to look at naked bikes that I really loved. While at the dealership I spent a little time on each bike switching from my left and right foot and I felt great. I have more confidence in my ability now, and I am exiting to spend this season practicing in parking lots LOL

[@johncaswell2648]

I'm 6'2" and I still find "cowboy mounting" by standing on the peg to be the easiest way to get on my V-Strom. It just seems to be the way it's meant to be done on an ADV bike.

[@alodan50]

Wow I can see how you’ve gotten so much better at everything and are more confident than you were before. Keep up the learning and practice!

[@thedrunkmonk8386]

Just went up to my bigger bike with these tips 😅 thanks!

[@hillkillr]

I love small rider tips videos. I almost always learn something new and useful. I'm not a small rider, but I ride a tall Dual Sport so pretty much all of these tips apply to me. I'm gonna try to learn the kickstand technique in case I ever need it. And I've already been using most of the other techniques thanks to Joselyn Snow.

[@marvinfair8737]

Thanks for the tips....I grab the passenger peg bracket on my Tiger to assist when using the center stand.

[@iainf6]

You have come so far on confidence and technical ability well done Carolyn, so proud to be a subscriber on this channel,👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👍🏻

[@edmulroney2998]

Order a roll of velcro ( .5" or 1"). Cut off a length for your front brake and leave it wrapped around your handle bar at all times. You can uses the rest to tighten up gear for packing. It's inexpensive and has 101 uses.

[@MrDorggy2910]

Much love to my girl ❤...you are an inspiration...I'm heading to Montana and yellowstone renting KLR 650 being 5'8 and new rider this video will be a boost to have this trip done right.Proud of you!!

[@tollertollertoller]

I' used to be 5"4", now 5"3" with a constant 26.5" inseam, and your lessons and what you have learned helped me a bunch along with Ride Like a Pro Jerry Palladino. Though I'm a life long rider, being 69 now, I can't muscle my way through like I used to, so these techniques you share have greatly improved my riding pleasure and confidence. Well done, dude.

[@christian-rider]

Thanks for sharing. I am a short rider with short legs. Your video has encouraged me and allowed me to acquire the confidence i need to enjoy and relax as i ride. Your video has made my riding experience more enjoyable. Thanks so much!

[@stanleyroberts4381]

Lots of good info there! Thanks 👍😊 I will add, when I throw my kickstand down to dismount, I leave my bike in first gear because it has a tendency to roll forward enough to roll off the kickstand. That prevents it from falling.

[@williamacosta6282]

You go girl your awesome !!!😊

[@carltonbirds]

I’m only 1 inch high 4 ft across, this certainly helped, thanks.

[@motofotoworks]

Excellent content! From a 5'5" guy with a 30" inseam, your counsel is sound and appreciated. Great stuff; keep the informative and creative content coming.

[@cameron503]

Short dude who rides an R1200GS here. All great tips, and I do one foot down now even when riding my smaller bike, it just feels more natural and stable to me. I've never seen the kickstand trick, I'll have to try that out! Thanks Doodle, I enjoy your videos!

[@gamano7905]

Thanks for the tips. I’m an order guy that’s been riding sport tourers for ever and bought an adventure bike. It’s much higher than what I normally ride. I will put your tips to use and not be so intimidated riding it

[@elizabethwonders]

You are just an awesome human being! Thank you for sharing your knowledge and skills! Sooo helpful to me!! ❤️❤️😊🔥

[@Jeremybaland]

I love these videos for shorter people and tall bike as I am on of them at 5'5". The statement I'm about to make is bike dependent. When taking a bike off the center stand DO NOT leave the side stand down. Depending on how much weight is on the bike it can/will compress the suspension bumping the side stand and cause you to drop the bike to the opposite side. I have seen this happen and have first hand experience.

[@at2mango]

Great show, very helpful for a small framed rider. I like dropping my bike where there is people because they always offer to help. Thanks, again.

[@scrub_nurse_1980]

Definitely I will to do the hip kick while handlebar on the left to stand up the bike tomorrow! I thought the only way was to stand up the bike with my hands and then mounting it! Thank you girl. You are giving me the confidence to ride my husband's v Strom!

[@NoChance-zl3nb]

I’m a 162cm tall female rider living in Australia. When I first learnt how to ride a bike, the one foot down method was the method I was taught to do. I’m currently riding the Kawasaki Z900RS, which is considerably heavier and taller than my first learners bike a Ninja 400. Without the one foot down method, there is no way for this upgrade to happen.

[@eivindvh87]

When takeing the bike off the center stand you can rock it back so the back wheel touches the ground first and then go forward. Gives you more momentum.

[@tjs201971]

Always appreciate the advice!! Every video has been very helpful to me and many others 👏👏👏👍

[@brucegerken1063]

Great video thank you very well done. Thanks for teaching us I'm 67 yes I'm still learning .thanks again cheers to ya.

[@mukku_bhaiya]

You seem so comfortable in this video. Your passion for riding a tall bike is truly inspiring. You're setting a great example for other girls who want to pursue their love for biking.

[@LH-zv2zq]

A tall and heavy bike. Ride these when you're young and can muscle them around!

[@boomerhgt]

Well done i just watched your cruiser bike lift which i enjoyed but because of panniers and crash bars was doubtful...but this Adventure bike lift is impressive go girl.

[@jackflannery6139]

5/20/23. Doodle. So great to meet you at Barber Museum today. Enjoyed showing you the steam powered Roper and the 1902 Steffy. Just subscribed to your channel. Hope to see some vids on this weekends MotoAmerica races and the Barber Museum. Might be worth another trip to Birmingham.

[@frankmoralesiii6908]

Saw those Lone Rider bags. i am planning to get a set next month before my Calif trip

[@CosmicCookieCraze]

Love the idea to tie the front brake! Also when you're standing your bike up off the kick stand turn your wheel to the right. Helps it stand up easier

[@MrGF1582]

I like that kick stand trick where you balance the bike for a second and kick the stand up. I'm 5-5 and have a Kymco AK550 and it's tall for me, so gonna try that. I also have a Honda CTX700 DCT and the seat is 25 inches and so flat feet on both sides. The Kymco AK550 is for touring long rides. Planning on a Key West ride soon. The AK is great on fuel. Thanks for the video and ride safe!

[@mdragon99]

Great tips! You are a great inspiration to all riders.

[@tommybrian1]

Great tips Doodle, please ride safely

[@SMLPhotography1]

I used to have the hardest time getting my 2011 Tiger 800 up onto the center stand. The bike always felt soooo top heavy. A couple of motorcycle buddies tried it and had the same comments. Whew!

[@ajilano7753]

Thanks Doodle 👍 i ended up getting my dream bike 2 months ago which is the Zx10r. It was higher than my r3 but I was able to ride the bike because of tips and tricks that i learned from you

[@RayGreen94510]

Thank you for the reminders and new tips Carolyn, I even learned a new riders term, butt schootch! For me I find having the bike in neutral help lifting on the center stand because it allows the rear wheel to roll a bit. I also take it off the center stand in gear so the bikes doesn't roll away from me.

[@jdtoledo]

We have the same inseam of 31" but I am 5'6.5" good on you. thanks for the tips!

[@barrykrakovsky756]

Great tips. I have a 29" inseam and like to ride adventure bikes so I have to incorporate most of the techniques that you displayed. One more tip for the center stand use, make sure that both feet of the center stand are down before you push down and rearward to raise it.

[@michaelkcaye1005]

Your smile makes me happy 😀

[@filiplezny]

OMG i was so scared watching you take it down from the centre stand with the side stand extended. Unfortunately, I learned it the hard way and crushed my left foot (toes) a few times with it. So either remember where you place your left foot every time, or (my preferred way these days) to close the side stand ahead of taking it off the centre stand. Have fun! It looks like you're doing all the right things (courses) in order to enjoy riding more and more every day! And 💪💪 for sharing it!!

[@kalikillz]

I'm literally so thankful for this video!!! I just got a zx 6r but a little intimidated now that it's in front of me lol. But I am Def using these tips

[@Irelandunited2012]

Great video, you're great! :) Thanks from Ireland!

[@tom_gorman]

As others have said, I do not recommend leaving the side stand down when coming off the center stand. Not only could it smash your toe but if the bike is loaded with luggage the suspension compresses even more and can land on the side stand on it's way down, sending the bike away from you resulting in a drop. Ask me how I know. Also, that rear tire needs replacing. 😀

[@brianr9779]

Thank you. Excellent tips.

[@scarlet9323]

It’s because of you and Jocelyn snow that I bought a big cc bike. I practice your vlogs and try to become a better rider. I’m 5’2” 28” inseem. So thanks to you, oh and Jo paladino. Not ready for a gs just yet.😂

[@amyv6957]

Thank you! Very informative and well done 👏

[@monunyabidness5949]

I'm not limber at all and I too ride a tall bike (Honda Africa Twin) at 5'9". I stand on the left side foot peg to get on or off the bike.

[@box510motorcycles3]

I'm a short rider who likes taller bikes. Your videos on this subject are great.

[@brucebillb]

Center stand tip: as you first push down the center stand with your foot, one metal leg of the stand is in contact to the ground. Push the bike slightly away from you until you feel that the other leg of the stand is in contact to the ground as well.

[@johnanderson9735]

Great tips for sure. I have an Africa Twin, and I decided to make it more comfortable for me by having the suspension lowered professionally. Lowering this way also fixed a problem the AT has of excessive dive in the front while stopping. I know everyone doesn’t need to lower their bike, but if you do having done ✅ professionally is the way to go. I got springs specifically made to my model. I just using ‘Dog Bones’ is half of the solution.

[@Angel9932]

I find tricks like these useful for me on my cruiser and I'm bigger guy at 6ft and 240lbs. Especially how to lift a bike from the ground.

[@ioandragulescu6063]

I don't know, not saying there aren't tips and tricks to help a shorter rider manage a bigger bike but I always think of the unexpected exceptions like a pothole, off camber road, slight moment of getting caught of guard and so on. In those instances, it will always be easier for a rider with a short reach to drop the bike. More so with a heavy bike. I am 5'9" with a 32 inch inseam and currently ride a 2023 v strom 1050 with a 33.7 seat height. I can flat foot it on both sides but I still went for the lower seat option just to have the peace of mind that when one of those unexpected moments happen, I have the margin of error to get a good plant and not drop the bike.

[@karlnowakowski7866]

Thanks for the great hints 😊

[@nancysherrill3189]

THANK YOU SO MUCH DOODLE

[@mushtiar_Engineer]

Freedom and Connection to the Road: Riding a motorcycle provides a sense of freedom and a direct connection to the road, allowing riders to experience the surroundings in a unique way.

[@ApocalypseNouille]

These techniques are useful for people of any size, so thanks for sharing! One thing I would mention, while lifting your bike in Bonus section #2, I noticed you were pulling the clutch when grabbing the left grip. I personally would not pull the clutch. Chances are the bike is still in gear from when it was dropped, so that gear will act as a brake and stabilize the bike when you lift it. You partially covered that aspect when you showed the strap on the front lever (I use a short Voile strap for that - when using a trail stand, usually - very quick to set and holds solid). Anyway, I love watching your progress, I wish my wife had any interest riding her own bike off road with me!

[@jdchappe]

Thank you so much!

[@carlostomas3698]

I’m a little taller than Doodle but have a smaller inseam, that what matters (to compare) about reaching the ground. I started riding about 1 1/2 month on a 125cc Suzuki GSX-S125. It was the lower seat I found in this category. About a week ago I finished my motorcycle driver’s license to be able to chose whatever bike I wanted. I’ve been seeing some bikes (400cc and 650ccish) that I think I would like for my riding (I think I like riding to some more distant places, that I can do in 1-2 days) and feel that I need a little more power and comfort, so I have to chose more bigger/heavier bikes. But when I try some bikes I usually tip-toe or have less of 1/2 of my feet on the ground (both feet). With one foot, usually I have more ground covered, of course. When I ask for prices I instantly ask for if it’s possible to lower them (properly). Recently I “discovered” other problem that adds to seat height: the placement of the foot pegs! Usually, the ones I tried to seat on, are placed at the same place where I have to put my leg when lowering my feet to the ground, which demands “more” length on the legs because I have, obviously, to widen them. Curiously, on my Suzuki GSX-S125, the foot pegs are placed at a little bit more at the back of the bike, relatively to where I have the legs when footing to the ground. No wonder I found more “comfortable” (secure) to seat on my bike. After “discovering” this, obviously I try to find “solutions” for this: yes there are aftermarket rear sets that allows to “adjust” foot peg position. Since I have now my driver’s license, sometimes the dealerships offer me the possibility to test drive some motorcycles, but as I have this “height challenge” problem I have turned down any offer because I’m afraid to let the bikes fall when stoping. Went to a motorcycle rental dealer, seat on some bikes and having, obviously, the same problem: if the seat was a little lower and/or if I could push this damn foot pegs back a little I would try it (rental as the advantage that i can subscribe an insurance if I damaged a bike. On the driving test it’s all on me). Today I reached home, after going to that rental place, a little bit sad that it seems I’m incapable of riding other thing than my bike, because I want to adapt all the bikes to my “condition” instead of trying to adapt myself to (at least, some) bikes! This was really a mind blowing to what I thought that I could be as a rider, a very limited one! Clearly there is a huge lack of confidence on my riding abilities (even on my bike I already usually stop with only one foot down, but sometimes I still get unbalanced and it’s good I can have my 2 feet down, even it’s not completely flat). Maybe this a clear sign that i cannot go already to a bigger bike, but I’m not sure either that this lack of confidence/fear will ever disappear. This kind of saddens me a lot as I mentally realize this “disability” but, at the moment, I’m capable of enjoying like crazy every time I ride and practice in my 125cc. Seeing this kind of content give me, at least, some hope. Thank you.

[@bobvandick2546]

Great video Doodle!!

[@CrownJewelDiscoveries]

Thanks for the great tips!

[@RnR-Rebel]

TSM Doodle! Apparently all those years as a kid riding on trails I lift, mount, dismount like an “ adventure” rider (to me it was motocross, doing insane things on a mini bike as a tiny kid- haven’t grown much either😂), which is cuckoo! I haven’t done that in maybe 50 yrs! I must tell you after your last video I was pumped! I’ve gotten scared of my tiny Rebel 250 due to injuries incurred from an assault last yr, but I kept saying “I can do it!” To myself & the 1st time in maybe 6 mos I got on the bike, balanced (my feet are more than flat, my knees come up a bit), shifted, let it down (hubby helped, but did it mostly) to make sure I could lift it if I dumped. Ever since, I’ve been having a repetitive dream of riding & getting it into 3rd within 4 blocks of home, making a slow U turn, then home safely. Guess who’s going for it this weekend😊? Thank you for the encouraging words, much love! Jet 🧡🎸🎶⚡️ PS freaky, I’m under 5’ & my inseam is 30-32” (depends on brand, usually latter) ! Dang it, freak in every way… but proud!💚😘

[@fumogeneraltrading7490]

Great video, thank you.

[@Withered_Souls187]

I’m not sure if you’ve ever heard of Estrapz, they’re an electric bike brand, and the bike I bought is a CS20 MK2 which weighs 150, this is actually very helpful

[@ashmototherapy]

Using the rock gave me an idea to bring a small piece of 2x4, drill a hole and attach some thin but strong rope so I can bring the little step with me everywhere and it's light weight lol. Painted it with matte black spray paint and it matches my bike lol. Great tips!

[@neostratospey6946]

Thank you!

[@EddieSprouse]

Great video.

[@stewarts8597]

You now have become a Jedi Master. May the Doodle be with you. :)

[@toportime]

Nice tips! Thanks.

[@bebok1234]

You are lucky I do not have a central stand my Tiger is GT low and cleaning a chain is hard. All the best on your trip.

[@loumencken9644]

Have you looked into a Snapjack? If you're not familiar with it, it's a little hard to describe, but it fits under the swingarm opposite the sidestand; you push on it with your foot which locks it into place and lifts the rear wheel 1/2" or so off the ground so it can be turned. It's relatively small and light so packable for trips, and doesn't cost a ton of money ($50-55 USD). I've never used one since my Tiger 800 has a centerstand, but I'm sure there are reviews of it on the internet and YT which might be worth checking out. Full disclosure- I have zero connection with whatever company makes it.

[@goranmajnaric556]

thank you

[@ricebowl3]

Doodles is the GOAT 🐐

[@hoodboomer]

I also turn the front wheel in the direction of the lift. It just seems to make it easier to lift the bike for me.

[@andrews882]

Excellent advice.

[@waynerobertson511]

When a bike is on the centre stand, you can stand on the footpegs, throw your wait forward, and just ride away too. Probably hard on the centre stand. But, never seen it break one.

[@fenrirr2052]

There's a video where motojitsu tapes his feet to his footpegs and he does that technique to get the bike off the stand if anyone is interested in seeing a video of someone doing it

[@alanevans5353]

these are really good tips, It's different for me because I'm taller, but when putting a heavier bike on the kickstand I like to pull up on the back of the bike to take some of the weight off the rear wheel, and add a little more weight onto me for leverage with the stand. It kinda looked like you were already doing that though.

[@foxonarocket2109]

My dream is to have a adventure bike , for now I just have a CB125R , love your videos !!!!!!!!

[@chonkyb3134]

Excellent video!

[@luckylook7159]

Okay, doodle. I am now officially on a war path to get my centre stand up. It's the only thing I still struggle with. So gonne see if I can do this with my bmwf700gs. All previous attempts were a fail. But if you can do it, so can I!

[@MartiniHi]

Thanks!

[@DoodleOnAMotorcycle]

Thank YOU!

[@neondeception2]

I have to tip toe my ninja 400. I'm glad I've watched lots of your videos on how to handle it. I also have to stand on the footpeg to get my leg over the tail. The first few times I felt like the bike was going to tip over. haha

[@sarahtano8094]

Could you do a short girl, big bike stopping at a light on a steap incline? I'm 5' 0" and feel so limited on the type of bike I can ride specifically because I live in the middle of a very steep hill city and am worried about starting/stopping on those steep hills.

[@jerrymorales6501]

All excellent tips. I especially loved the very last one. Prior to your video, I had never seen anyone get off their center stand while off the bike. I've always seen and gotten off the center stand while mounted on the bike. I figured the kickstand would hit the ground as the suspension is high/soft on most adventure bikes. But it doesn't. Have you tried it with the bike loaded? Thanks again.

[@DoodleOnAMotorcycle]

Not sure what you mean here - center stand - did you mean kickstand? Have done all these things with the bike loaded

[@jerrymorales6501]

@@DoodleOnAMotorcycle you had your bike on the center stand. Then while you were off the bike, you took it off the center stand with the kickstand out. I have always been on the bike when taking it off the center stand-with no kickstand extended. I noticed that when you did it, the kickstand did not hit the ground. I was just wondering if you had tried that method while the bike was loaded with gear? If so did the kickstand hit the ground when taking it iff the centerstand (the way you did it off the bike)?

[@jbones2121]

I rider cruisers because I’m a short dude - 5’6”. Maybe with these tips I can get in to a sport bike with a higher seat height. Thanks!!

[@johnrborges2363]

You are always informative, so cute, and entertaining; I even learned something new today. Always praying for your safety. Buy the way, I'm a 5', 5" tall short Latin man, go figure! [I ride a Honda Phantom] Peace in Christ - JB 🧑🏻 To get women, and "Short" women interested in riding I ask them to sit on my "low seat" motorcycle. The Honda Phantom is a great bike to start on, and it won't get away from you like some sport bikes. Comfortable seating. Makes easy U-Turns and turns, and cruises smoothly with a low rumble sound. It even catches up with everything on the highway. Affordable too, used $3,000 - $5,000; new $7,800.

[@stevewilson8752]

Great helpful tips chicki 👍😀 Respect from Australia 🇭🇲🕺🍹

[@jasonshortphd]

I have always mounted ADV bikes by standing on the pegs. Makes it MUCH easier, I don’t care how tall you are. Just grab that front brake while doing it.

[@itsallabouttheridekeepingi4449]

I feel your pain , Paul from Australia 🇦🇺. Iv been riding dirt bikes since I was about 10 and now 55 . I’m only 5,5 and a lot of those thick’s I’ve HAD TO USE 😂😂😂. Another thing I have done to most of my bikes over the years is get my seat lowered from an Upholster , and put my forks through the triple clamps around 10mm max . This is the best way without spending loads of money in professional lowering ( that off road with effect your ground clearance) . 👍

[@jaronard1]

A lot of good tips here for taller riders too. Shorter riders have to use a lot more skill and technique, and every taller rider will eventually find themselves in a position where they can’t get both feet down.

[@ilyas0509]

i feel your passion❤

[@LH-zv2zq]

The simplest thing such as tying up the hand brake is genius, lol. Thnx for showing that. Question, for a long ride (out in nowheres) would you bring extra gas?

[@Adam-wr7uc]

Awesome video

[@9milsOn2wheels]

I'm number 238 thumbs up, let's hear it for me!

[@onivw]

Dear ma'am, I am a short height man plus my left leg is injured due to acident. Still I am planing to buy adv bike. I am taking inspiration from your video.

[@mapheomotto5594]

Yea I'm in the same situation on my tracer 9gt lol i spin the bike really quick on its kickstand when I pull in to a parking spot, people think I'm a magician l 😅

[@Inthewind24]

All good tips. One thing I don’t understand is why the ADV crowd (at least on YT) loves laying their nice bikes on the ground just to practice picking them up. I’m saying that as an owner of a Tiger 1200 and not throwing shade at Doodle either. I’m not putting my $25000 bike on it’s side for any reason willingly. If it falls by accident or is knocked over, by God, I will figure out a way to lift it. I don’t need practice.

[@gullyfoyle-uf6fr]

please be careful taking the bike off the center stand with the side stand down. It's very easy to for the side stand to come down on the top of your foot -- ouch! :-)

[@biondanishgenomeinstitute8193]

How about getting a shock, or shocks that are height adjustable? beware that the steering is then changed. If all fails, borrow the parents disco-boots from the 70s.

[@hellkath]

This was SUPER helpful! Mostly because I hadn’t realized but I ended up getting the exact same bike as you and it’s my first tall bike. I used to always aim for lower bikes to be able to move them around while sitting on em but lets be real, even if I was “able to” Id still end up having to use all my strength to do so.. now I have to get off the bike but it’s still easier so why not get the best out of motorcycles? This bike is amazing! And it offers everything I bike ever could but you definitely need some tricks when you’re 5’3-3/4”. Did you get the lower seat on yours? You seem to have a slight advantage as even on one foot I still can’t flat foot it. I decided heated seat trumped flat footing the bike 🤣

[@monkeyman41333]

Compare her inseam to yours. Makes a big differnce.

[@hellkath]

@@monkeyman41333 I think we have the same actually but I ended up having it lowered after all for ease of access. Much more confidence inspiring when stoping.