The Mistakes New Motorcycle Riders Make & How to Fix Them

Riding a motorcycle is an exciting and liberating experience, but every new rider is bound to make mistakes. Some errors are minor, while others can be dangerous or costly. The good news? You can learn from the experiences of others and avoid these common pitfalls. Let’s dive into the top beginner mistakes and how you can steer clear of them!

1. Skipping Safety Gear

Many new riders think wearing just a helmet is enough. But trust me—road rash isn’t fun! A minor spill can result in painful injuries if you’re not properly geared up. Always follow the ATGATT rule: All The Gear, All The Time. That means a good-quality helmet, gloves, riding jacket, pants, and sturdy boots. Your future self will thank you.

2. Overconfidence in the First Few Rides

Getting comfortable on a bike feels great, but overconfidence can lead to trouble. Many beginners start pushing their limits too soon—taking corners too fast or weaving through traffic like a pro. But remember, riding skills develop over time. Take it slow, respect your limits, and focus on building your confidence safely.

3. Poor Clutch & Throttle Control

Ever seen a beginner accidentally pop a wheelie or stall at a stoplight? That’s usually due to poor clutch and throttle control. Too much throttle with too little clutch can make your bike jump like a wild horse. The fix? Practice in an open space before heading into traffic. Get a feel for smooth throttle and clutch engagement.

4. Target Fixation

This is a classic mistake—your eyes lock onto an object, and before you know it, your bike is heading straight for it! This happens because your bike follows your gaze. Instead of staring at obstacles, focus on where you want to go. Look through turns, and your bike will follow smoothly.

5. Wrong Braking Technique

Grabbing a handful of the front brake can make you flip, while relying only on the rear brake isn’t effective. Proper braking is key to safe riding. Use progressive braking: about 70% front brake and 30% rear brake for normal stops. And don’t forget to practice emergency braking in a safe area—it could save your life one day.

6. Not Checking Blind Spots

Motorcycles are small compared to cars and trucks, which means drivers often don’t see you. Relying only on mirrors isn’t enough—always do a quick shoulder check before changing lanes. It’s a simple habit that prevents a lot of accidents.

7. Not Knowing How to Countersteer

At higher speeds, motorcycles don’t turn like bicycles. If you want to turn right, you push the right handlebar, and if you want to turn left, you push the left handlebar. This is called countersteering, and it’s essential for smooth and safe cornering.

8. Riding Too Close to Other Vehicles

Following too closely reduces your reaction time. If the car in front suddenly brakes, you might not have enough time to stop safely. Maintain a 2-3 second gap from vehicles ahead, and always have an escape route in case of emergencies.

9. Forgetting to Cancel Turn Signals

Unlike cars, most motorcycles don’t have self-canceling turn signals. Leaving them on can confuse other drivers and lead to accidents. Get into the habit of manually canceling your signals after every turn.

10. Not Practicing Slow-Speed Maneuvers

Riding at high speeds is one thing, but slow-speed control is where many beginners struggle. U-turns, tight corners, and slow parking lot maneuvers require practice. Use the rear brake, keep the throttle steady, and practice slow-speed riding to improve your balance and control.

11. Grabbing the Handlebar Too Tightly

Many beginners make the mistake of gripping the handlebars too tightly, especially when nervous or riding at higher speeds. A tight grip leads to stiff arms and reduces your ability to maneuver the bike smoothly. Instead, keep a light but firm grip on the handlebars, allowing for better control and less fatigue. Let the bike move naturally beneath you rather than fighting against it.

Every rider makes mistakes—it’s part of the learning process. But by being aware of these common beginner errors, you can ride smarter and safer. Have you made any of these mistakes before? Share your experiences in the comments! And if you found this guide helpful, don’t forget to share it with fellow riders.

Check out my video covering the same blog topic(in Hindi)!

Ride hard, Ride safe! 🏍️