Riding the Harley Davidson for the first time is exciting for any motorcyclist. For some people riding a Harley Davidson means freedom. On the other hand, it is more like a necessity to have it for some people.
Even if you are entirely new to this, it is going to be even more enjoyable. For a beginner, the first-time riding on a Harley Davidson will make the ride undoubtedly memorable.
Any new experience is a combination of a little bit of hesitation and excitement. For getting rid of all kinds of uncertainty, some tricks and tips are waiting for you right away.
By following these steps and processes, you will get used to safe driving habits that will benefit you even in the upcoming days.
So, fasten your seat belt to learn how to ride a Harley Davidson for the first time. In this article, you will get the guidelines to ride your Harley Davidson without any trouble.
How to Ride Harley Davidson For The First Time
Follow the given guidelines to learn “How to ride a Harley Davidson for the first time”.
1. Observation:
Observe your Harley Davidson before you start the ride. Try to form the habit of inspecting your motorcycle every time you set off. Observing will ensure the safety of the ride.
You must be careful while observing so that you don’t miss any crucial damage. Prepare your motorcycle by checking special features to detect any possible defect.
Here are some features that you must check for observation.
Check the tires:
It would be terrible if you blow one of your tires when you are riding it for the first time. Check the condition and pressure of the tires to make sure there is plenty of air.
Check Controls:
To direct your Harley Davidson, you must have proper control over it. Make sure the handgrips, handlebars, levers, and pedals are adjustable. Check that there are no cracks, bends, and visible damage that can cause you any harm while riding.
Check the lights and electrics:
Check your motorcycle battery to ensure the electrolyte level is high enough to ride. Also, check the headlights and signal are working. And don’t forget to look at the conditions of the wires and switches too.
Check Oil and Other Fluids:
The most important thing to check before you start riding is the fluids or oils are leaking or not. Also, look out for the levels of coolant, engine oil, hydraulic fluid, and fuels.
2. Set Up the Right Mindset:
Since you are riding the Harley Davidson for the first time, you must clear your mindset beforehand. Just think when you take your motorcycle o the highway, any vehicle could hit you at any moment.
Many may not notice a motorcycle and hit you out of distraction by accident. So, drive on a defensive mode while riding the bike. Also, be alert all the time to avoid any risk of damage.
Here are some of the crucial defensive driving tips you can follow.
Intersections:
Be alert whenever you get close to an intersection. Also, notice the street corners, gas stations, parking lots from where any vehicle could come up on your way all of a sudden.
Scan Ahead:
Always try to scan as far as you can to avoid any possible danger. It will help you be vigilant if any tree or object is lying ahead to obstruct your way.
Road Positioning:
Make sure you are in the right position on the road. Always avoid a blind spot for another vehicle so that it does not hit you for not noticing. Either drive far behind or far ahead to prevent blind spots.
3. Getting on the bike:
Good etiquette for the rider is getting on the bike from the left side. A little trick to remember this is always to remember “the right is wrong.” So, try to form this habit from the very first ride of your Harley Davidson.
4. Adjust the Mirrors:
For a motorcycle, sometimes it takes a wrench to adjust mirrors. Before setting off, it is crucial to adjust your mirror. Put your bike in a proper position, then check the mirrors if their settings are correct set to see the sight around you.
5. Take Proper Caution:
Take proper caution before you start your first ride on Harley Davidson. You should wear a motorcycle helmet to avoid any damage to your head in case any accident happens.
Moreover, to have more protection you can also wear motorcycle gloves and jackets.
6. Feel the bike:
We, humans, have our instinct to do things as per the situation. Even though you take proper preparation, anything unexpected may come your way.
So, try to feel the weight of the motorcycle underneath you and be comfortable with it. In this way, you will instinctively know when to turn and shift your vehicle per whatever the situation demands.
7. Ride the Harley Davidson:
Harley Davidson is a friendly bike for beginners. However, it is heavy yet easy to control as the weight down is low and so comfortable for the rider.
The unique thing about Harley Davidson is it produces a flat torque band that comes on slowly. When it hit its peak, it falls the redline closes. In this way, you can quickly drive, keeping your eyes on the road and shift when necessary.
As you get used to the ride, you can smoothly accelerate shifting at lower rpm instead of powering them up. Lean back a little when necessary and look straightforward while riding.
8. Enjoy the Ride:
The most memorable thing to ride your Harley Davidson for the first time is whether you enjoyed it or not. See the road get vanished underneath you. Feel the wind as it flows against your face. Enjoy the ride to the fullest and feel the freedom.
If you are a beginner, I will suggest you ride your Harley Davidson on a deserted road or a road with less traffic than a regular one. Thus, you will feel safer and less anxious to enjoy your ride.
See the scenario of how it feels much more beautiful when you are riding on the motorcycle. And make your first time riding on a Harley Davidson a precious memory.
Once you experience your first ride, it will be easier for you to ride it the next time, and soon you will get used to it. Forming the best habit from the beginning and following the right etiquette of riding a motorcycle will always keep you ahead for safety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How does one know if the Harley Davidson is not too heavy for an individual?
The best way to check if the bike is too heavy for you or not is by walking the bike. Remember to do it when it is neutral or off mode. When you walk with the bike on its off-mode, you will know as you feel the weight whether it is heavy for you or not.
How tall does one need to be to ride a Harley Davidson?
It can vary depending on the model of the bike. Some models are for shorter riders, while some others are for taller riders. So, you can choose what model is suitable for them as per their heights.
Why does the back wheel of the motorcycle slide while shifting it?
It could be for downshifting a gear too low or giving too much throttle in case of an upshift. It may also happen if the clutch cable is not tight enough as it allows the motorcycle to move, even when you pull the clutch. So, make sure to check your clutch cable.
What is the best way to stop Harley Davidson: foot, arm, or hand brake?
It generally depends on the speed you are riding on your Harley Davidson. One can gear back for a non-aggressive rider, combining the foot brake and the hand brake to stop your motorcycle.
Bottom line:
Riding a Harley Davidson can give a rider the best possible experience. This motorcycle ride can give you a taste of freedom at the same time, capable of fulfilling your necessity to go to different places. But it is essential to you maintain your safety along the way.
By forming the right habit of riding, you can minimize possible risks and damages and get assured to enjoy your ride without any worry. This article gives you a guideline on how you should ride your Harley Davidson for the first time.
Following this advice can give a head start for a comfortable ride on your first-time ride. Learning the additional tips will sharpen your skill over time and boost your confidence to another level for riding a motorcycle.
As now you know “How to ride a Harley Davidson for the first time,” it’s time to get your Harley Davidson on the road and create the beat of memory of riding it for the first time.