In case you have missed Part 1 of this article, here is the link for you.
Master Tip 4: Practice normal braking and panic braking
We can totally understand if numerous people have told you about the horrors of skidding while braking, specially using the front brake. Its because they have never been taught how to use the brakes. The reason why practicing braking is important on a motorcycle is because it takes time to develop fine control of the brakes. One needs to develop a feel of using the front brake and rear brake individually, as well as simultaneously. Panic braking, however, should be done using both the brakes, simultaneously (please check the condition of the tires, before practicing). At normal roadgoing speeds, both brakes are to be used together. At walking speeds (below 10 km/h), one may use only the rear brake, as the front brake may prove too powerful and unsettle the suspension of the bike, specially during U turns. Understand all about braking on a motorcycle in this article.
Master Tip 5: Ride in the right gear at the right speed
Riding at 40 km/h in 1st gear and riding at 40 km/h in 3rd gear is very different, dynamically. Believe us when we say that being in the right gear matters A LOT – the bike handles differently in each gear (the handling is taut in lower gears and relaxed in higher gears). You should aim for an optimum combination of acceleration and speed. Read our article about gear-shifting and master the gear-speed relationship.
Master Tip 6: Correct your body position/posture
Motorcycles are highly dynamic in nature and can be affected by the slightest body movements or changes in weight distribution. A lot depends on how you are sitting on the bike. Remember, the smoother you are, the better handling your bike will be. Following is the correct body position:
1) Eyes looking far ahead in the direction you want to go, anticipating movements by other drivers and riders.
2) Elbows slightly bent, to absorb shocks emanating due to road undulations and accommodate the handlebar movement.
3) Grip on the handlebars should be not too tight, nor too loose. This helps in precisely steering the bike, specially during slow speed turns, U turns and swerving maneuvers.
4) Shoulders and arms in a relaxed position, to allow for easy steering movement.
The handlebar is the most sensitive piece of equipment on the bike. Body position matters. More on body position can be found here.
5) Foot position, ready to engage the next gear, to allow for fast and smooth gear shifting.
No motorcycle is intimidating in itself, it all depends on how you ride it.
