5 Common Mistakes New Motorcycle Riders Make
Riding a motorcycle is inherently risky, even for experienced riders. It's like straddling a steel beast and hurtling down the freeway, mostly unprotected, surrounded by large cars, vans, SUVs, and semi-trucks. In 2023, over 15% of traffic fatalities in the United States were motorcycle riders, despite motorcycles making up only 3% of registered vehicles. The NHTSA found that your chances of getting killed in an accident were 28 times higher if you were riding a motorcycle than if you were driving a passenger vehicle.
New riders face an even greater challenge. A 1990 study of motorcyclists in Pennsylvania found that crash rates for inexperienced riders were two to four times higher than those of experienced riders. Some of this can be attributed to age, as younger riders (under 22) were more prone to crashes. However, new riders often make several mistakes that experienced riders don't. For instance, many new riders start with bikes that are too powerful or heavy for them. They forget that drivers of cars don't always see motorcyclists. They visually fixate on hazards, don't wear helmets despite the data showing their effectiveness, and often don't get any safety training.
Mistakes happen in all hobbies, but they can be fatal on motorcycles. With practice and education, fewer mistakes can be avoided. So, let's explore some of the most common pitfalls new riders fall into and how to avoid them.
1. Don't Neglect Your Gear
Yes, a helmet might mess up your hair, feel heavy and hot, and block out some noise. But wear it anyway. Helmets are 37% effective at preventing death in motorcycle accidents (41% for passengers), and the CDC says they reduce the risk of head injury by 69%. Some new riders believe helmets limit peripheral vision and hearing, but modern helmets with wraparound visors allow for clear side-to-side vision. The filtered-out noises are usually inconsequential, like wind noise. You should still hear important sounds like sirens and screeching brakes.
In states without helmet laws, 55% of fatal accident riders weren't wearing helmets, compared to just 9% in states with helmet laws. Wearing a helmet is crucial, and so is wearing the right gear. Invest in a leather or textile jacket designed for riding, with armor if possible. Don't forget gloves, motorcycle pants, and boots (check out our guide to the best motorcycle boots). The right clothing can protect you from serious injuries on the pavement.
2. Start Small, Ride Slow
That sleek Kawasaki Ninja H2 might look amazing, but it's a powerful beast. The supercharger impeller can reach 130,000 rpm, and the bike goes over 180 mph. But there are few public roads where such speed is legal or safe. Superbikes, or 'super sport' bikes, are known for their high death rates, with the IIHS reporting rates 4 times higher than other motorcycles. These bikes offer too much power for beginners. Start with a less powerful, more manageable bike, even if it doesn't look as cool. Focus on building your skills and confidence before tackling more powerful machines.
Weight is another factor. Heavier bikes are harder to maneuver, especially in tight corners and at low speeds. They can be more challenging to keep upright without proper clutch control or throttle management. Starting with a lighter bike allows you to develop the necessary skills before upgrading to heavier models.
3. Assume Drivers Can't See You
Drivers should be vigilant and look for motorcycles, checking their blind spots. But relying on what other drivers should do puts your life in their hands. In an Australian study, 65% of drivers missed seeing a motorcycle in a photo, compared to 31% missing a car. Assume drivers can't see you and ride accordingly. Bright-colored clothing, a high-visibility helmet, and running headlights are essential. Position yourself in the right third of the lane to avoid blind spots and slippery oil residue. Use your horn to alert drivers to your presence, even if it annoys some motorists.
4. Avoid Target Fixation
New riders often fall into target fixation, staring at hazards like potholes or debris. This can lead to accidents as your body and bike turn towards the hazard. Experienced riders advise focusing on the route around the hazard. Keep your eyes moving to check mirrors, scan both sides of your motorcycle, and avoid a narrow field of vision. Visualize a 360-degree image of your surroundings to have pre-determined escape routes. This situational awareness can be the difference between life and death.
5. Learn from the Experts
While self-teaching is tempting with resources like YouTube, it's not the best approach for learning to ride a motorcycle. A 1981 report by Professor Harry Hurt, 'The Hurt Report,' found that 92% of riders in motorcycle crashes were self-taught, and rider error was a factor in two-thirds of single-rider accidents. Don't rush into challenging passengers or roads. Take a rider safety course offered by organizations like Harley-Davidson or the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. Education is key, and establishing good habits early can save lives.
