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Ten Tips On Riding Your Motorcycle Home from The Dealership

Last Update: 10 November 2023

Ten Tips to Riding Your Motorcycle Home From The Dealership - MOTORESS
Ten Tips to Riding Your Motorcycle Home From The Dealership

You’ve just purchased a motorcycle from your local motorcycle shop – exciting! It’s now time to pick it up.  Riding your motorcycle home from  the dealership is not always as easy as it sounds. The first ride can pose unique challenges, especially if this marks a transition in your riding style or if it’s your initial venture on the particular motorcycle. Compounded by navigating through bustling city locations, the scenario might seem a bit daunting particularly when dealing with the common scenario of congested city locations. If you’ve recently switched your riding style or if this marks your initial experience on a motorcycle, the adjustment can add an extra layer of complexity. Whether you’re transitioning from a cruiser to a sportbike, opting for a larger touring model, or embarking on your maiden voyage as a new rider, the key is facing the road with confidence. By having a well-thought-out plan and following these ten tips for riding your motorcycle home, you’ll not only be well-prepared but also set the stage for a relaxed and enjoyable ride!

THE FIRST RIDE: THAT UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE

Many dealerships offer a shuttle delivery option for an extra fee. But depending on how this is calculated, and if you live a fair distance away, you may end up paying a lot.  Alternatively, relying on a friend with a van or truck might seem plausible, but unless experienced in transporting motorcycles, things could end up going wrong. And then there’s the option of your rider friend, husband or partner riding it home for you. However, this inaugural journey is a moment meant for you – it’s your opportunity to embark on the first ride of your new motorcycle. Consequently, you choose to take the reins and ride it home yourself.

It’s important to be mindful that the salesperson facilitating the handover of your new bike will likely provide a rundown of its operation. However, far too often I’ve seen this explanation fall short of comprehensive. Additionally, it’s not uncommon to receive “personal opinions” from the salesperson about the preferred way of doing things, which may not always align with what’s necessary or best for you. It’s advised to approach this information with a discerning mindset and, if needed, seek additional clarification or guidance to ensure a thorough understanding of your motorcycle’s operation.

For a secure and prepared journey, follow these ten essential tips when riding your motorcycle home!

TEN POINT CHECKLIST:

  1. PLAN YOUR ROUTE:   Plan your journey for a safe ride home from the dealership. This means planning your route ahead of time and stick to it. Plan this right down to the lanes you’ll use and will ride in. This is easily done using Google maps which in ‘street view’ mode will allow you to take a virtual advance ride.  Tip: travel as much as possible on straight roads to give you time to get a good feel for the new weight you’ll need to power and balance!
  2. AVOID RUSH HOUR:   If you’ll be fetching your bike on a week day avoid rush hour time slots; schedule your pick up well in advance or after the rush. If on a weekend, usually early Saturday or Sunday mornings before 11.00 a.m. are generally calmer.
  3. KEEP YOUR ROUTE SIMPLE:   Keep your route as simple as possible and ride roads you are familiar with. This is not a time to try out a new short cut. You want to avoid distractions.
  4. GET TO KNOW ALL CONTROLS ; INSPECT YOUR BIKE:   Before mounting up, familiarise yourself with all controls – how the turn signals work (self cancelling or not), ignition location, immobiliser if present, etc. Adjust the mirrors to fit your viewing needs. Read the full pre-ride inspection here.
  5. CHECK FUEL:   Check to ensure you fuel and enough to get you home. The dealership should provide a full tank. But be sure to check. If you’ve not got enough you’ll have to include a gas stop.
  6. GEAR UP: Always wear the appropriate riding gear. Dressing for the ride not only protects you but enhances your overall riding experience.
  7. SIT ON THE BIKE:   Now, sit on the bike (no need for helmet at this stage. The bike is not running yet.) and practise lifting the bike off the side-stand. Then kick-up the side stand balancing the bike. Then find the side-stand and push it into place, being sure it’s fully deployed.
  8. GET A FEEL FOR THE CONTOLS; CLUTCH & BRAKES: Familiarise yourself with the clutch lever, brake lever, front and rear brakes without the engine on. Feel the pressures required to apply and release these controls developing a good feel for them. Put the bike in first gear (bike is off) roll it forward by walking it; slowly let the clutch out to feel where the friction zone is where the power engages.
  9. READY TO RIDE; START THE BIKE: Now its time to get suited up and leave – start the bike. Use your “pilot’s” check list” acronym you were shown during your rider training course. Either FINE-C : Fuel, Ignition, Neutral, Emergency Kill Switch – Choke or another one that’s popular is: KNIFE – CCS. Kickstand, Neutral, Ignition, Fuel, Emergency kill switch, Clutch, Choke – Start!
  10. FRICTION ZONE:   Ease the clutch lever out until it just enters that friction zone and the bike tries to move forward. Allow the bike to move forward slightly – discover the friction zone and pull the clutch in. Practice this a few times until you’re feeling familiar with it. You’ll move off using your slow speed skills, controlling power to the rear wheel with the clutch.

Your new motorcycle will be a weight that’s different from the one you’re familiar with.

**For new riders, the transition to a heavier motorcycle can be substantial compared to the bikes you practiced on in a parking lot. The handling and performance are entirely different, likely more powerful, and the responsiveness of new tires, brake pads, and components might surprise you. Take it slow, approach it gently, and refrain from putting too much pressure or stress on yourself during this initial ride. Keep expectations at a comfortable level, allowing for a smoother adjustment to the new dynamics.

REMINDERS – Enhanced Safety Tips:

  • Practise In A Safe Area: If possible, practice in a nearby, less congested area before taking your route home. This will help you get a better feel bike’s handling, braking, and acceleration to build confidence before navigating through traffic.
  • Triple Traffic Check: Prioritize safety by performing not one, but three thorough traffic checks before maneuvering your motorcycle. Never solely rely on the awareness of others; instead, actively seek the big picture to make informed decisions on the road.
  • Eyes Up, Instruments Down: Maintain a vigilant focus on the road ahead by keeping your eyes lifted and away from the distractions of your instrument panel. This practice enhances your overall situational awareness, allowing you to respond swiftly to any unforeseen circumstances.
  • Listen to Your Bike: Develop a keen awareness of your motorcycle’s auditory cues. The sound of your bike can provide valuable information about its performance. Listen attentively and respond intuitively to ensure a smooth and safe riding experience.
  • Visibility is Key: Take proactive measures to be visible to other road users. Create space cushions around your motorcycle, and strategically choose lane positions that maximize your visibility while minimizing potential risks. Remember, being seen is an essential aspect of staying safe on the road.

Welcome to the motorcycle community! Once you’re back home and before embarking on your next adventure, take time to familiarize yourself with your new ride by thoroughly reading the owner’s manual.

Congratulations on your new motorcycle – ride safely and enjoy the journey!


Indian Motorcycles

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3 comments

Becky Emilia 25 December 2020 at 08:48

Riding a motorcycle without complete precautions are not only dangerous but also, in some unfortunate cases, deathly. Studies have revealed that 35% of motorcycle crashes have affected the neck and chin area. For this reason, make sure whenever you’re riding a motorcycle, you have your motorcycle helmet on. It is always better to be safe than sorry.

Reply
Adam Helmet 25 August 2020 at 05:13

I have been riding for about 15 years, and the thing I learned during that time period is “Your life is important” So always wear proper and protective gear while riding, it not only save your skin but also looks cool while riding.

Reply
Best Bluetooth Motorcycle Helmet 2017 – Buyer’s Guide | banphutungmayxuc 9 March 2017 at 05:07

[…] available in the market which make this entire process as simple as clicking a single button while riding your motorcycle. A bluetooth helmet camera is typically mounted on one side of the helmet and is able to take […]

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