Four Tips for Learning How to Ride a Motorcycle

Riding a motorcycle is exciting, exhilarating and can be just plain fun. However, it’s critical to learn how to ride safely. Here are four tips to get you on the right road:

1. Wear the right motorcycle gear

Before climbing on your bike, be sure you’re wearing the right safety gear – a properly fitting helmet and a jacket and/or pants designed to help protect from spills. Helmets are required in many states, so stay legal – and safe.

2. Get your motorcycle license

Check with your state department of motor vehicles for information about testing for, and obtaining, a motorcycle driver’s license. Some states have age restrictions for motorcycle drivers. Some even waive a motorcycle driving test if you already have a regular motor vehicle operator’s license.

3. Read the motorcycle’s manual

Before you climb on your new bike, read the owner’s manual so you understand how to operate the motorcycle. You’ll learn about its features, controls and instruments. Remember: It’s smarter and safer to know where everything is and how to use it ahead of time, so you’re not looking down and searching for them while you’re driving.

4. Take a driving course designed for motorcyclists

A driving course is a great way for a beginner to learn how to ride a motorcycle. It should teach safe operation – how to drive, shift, brake and turn – basic maintenance and defensive driving techniques. Your local department of motor vehicles may recommend motorcycle driver courses.

Here’s a bonus: Passing a course may help lower your motorcycle insurance rates. Talk to an agent to see if you may qualify for a discount.

Speaking of insurance . . .

Once you’ve bought your bike and have your license, be sure to protect it from motorcycle theft, damage and more with motorcycle insurance. For a free quote and discounts you may qualify for on motorcycle insurance coverage, contact Nationwide Insurance^®.