Tips for Enthusiastic Returning Motorcycle Riders

If you’ve not been riding on a motorcycle in years and want to get back to it now, there are a few things you’ll want to ensure to stay safe and comfortable on the road. We often recommend returning riders refresh their skills and knowledge before hitting the road with their favorite machines. In this blog post, we've discussed a few helpful tips for safely returning to motorcycle riding—so keep reading to learn more!

Take a Refresher Course

If it's been several years since you last rode a motorcycle, we highly recommend you take a refresher course. These are designed to help riders regain confidence, improve their riding skills, and learn about the latest safety features and technologies. If you need help determining the best course, ask our friendly team to assist you.

Get the Right Gear

Prioritize safety on the road, regardless of your riding skills and experience level. You’ll want to wear appropriate safety gear, including a DOT-approved helmet, gloves, close-toed shoes, a brightly colored riding suit, or a riding jacket with pants. While you may be tempted to stick with your old gear, new gear will provide better protection and comfort while riding. You’ll also want to use your headlights and reflective gear, especially at night.

Practice Your Maneuvers

Next, practice your riding skills in a safe environment, then hit the open road.

Find an empty parking lot to practice basic maneuvers, such as braking, turning, and accelerating, and regain muscle memory. This will help you prepare yourself for riding in real-life situations.

Start Slow

Returning to motorcycle riding can be overwhelming, so it's important to take it slow. Don't try to tackle a long ride or a busy road immediately. Instead, start with short rides on quiet roads, preferably during low-traffic hours. You can gradually increase the distance and complexity of your rides after becoming more comfortable.

Be Vigilant

Another tip for returning riders is to be aware of their surroundings. Practice defensive riding by scanning the road ahead for potential hazards, such as potholes, debris, and other obstacles, and maintain an appropriate distance from other vehicles around you.

Are you ready to hit the road with your motorcycle? Don’t hesitate to ask us for guidance or help you select the right bike for your rides. We at Big St. Charles Motorsports carry an impressive collection of motorcycles from various premium brands, and we can suggest models that fit your budget and riding style. To peruse our selection, visit our dealership in St. Charles, MO. We proudly serve St. Louis and St. Peters, so reach out today!